6 Habits That Can Stain Teeth!

When it comes to your teeth, prevention is better than cure. The best way to keep your smile looking bright is to avoid consuming staining substances in the first place. And if you’ve just undergone teeth whitening or are thinking about seeking it in the future, avoiding stains can help you get the most out of your treatment. Knowing what causes discolouration is the first step.

1. Drinking coffee and tea

Coffee is a well-known culprit for stained teeth. If you drink it regularly and don’t rinse your mouth with water after drinking it, dark pigments in coffee can stick to the enamel surface of teeth, causing them to darken over time.

Adding milk to tea or coffee can help reduce this effect. Plus, milk is a good source of calcium that’s important for your dental health!

2. Eating staining foods

Foods that could stain teeth include brightly coloured berries, beetroot, sticky lollies and dishes with richly coloured sauces. Thick curry sauces, tomato-based sauces and soy sauce.

Light and creamy sauces are less likely to cause teeth stains.

If you thought white wine was a stain-free alternative to red, think again. The acidity of some wines can soften tooth enamel, making teeth more prone to stains from other food and drink. Carbonated soft drinks and sports drinks can also lead to dental stains.

3. Not drinking enough water

Drinking the recommended quantity of water throughout the day is important for hydration, but it can also help to remove stains by rinsing away staining substances left on the teeth. If you live in a fluoridated area, drinking tap water with fluoride can also help to protect your teeth against decay.

4. Smoking

There are many health reasons to quit smoking already, but tobacco is also a major cause of teeth stains, whether it’s smoked or chewed. Besides stains, smoking is one of the common risk factors for many oral health problems, including gum disease and oral cancer.

5. Not brushing and flossing your teeth

Dental plaque that forms on the surfaces of teeth tends to retain the stains, and good oral hygiene helps reduce the build-up of plaque. Dentists recommend brushing teeth twice a day, preferably using fluoride toothpaste, and using dental floss at least once a day. And, of course, eating a healthy balanced diet without too much sugar can help too.

6. Not visiting the dentist

Regular check-up with your dentist is another important cornerstone of a good oral care routine. Your dentist can check your teeth and gums for early signs of problems and also offer advice about how to help keep your teeth healthy.

If you’re interested in a cosmetic treatment, they can help you understand the possible risks and costs involved so you can make an informed decision that’s right for you. To find out more, book an appointment with your Kellyville Ridge dentist today.

For more information and enquiries, call us on 02 8889 1588.