[Series] Dental Resolutions for the New Year – Resolution #4
It is unfortunate that many of the foods and drinks we consume on a daily basis can stain our teeth. The most common culprits are:
- coffee and tea
- dark-coloured berries
- dark-coloured jams and preserves
- sauces and glazes
- red wine
- sports drinks.
Here are a few tips that will help you keep your bright smile without having to give up your favourite foods.
Many of the foods that cause stains are also good sources of antioxidants (such as berries and tea). You may not want to completely eliminate these from your diet. Instead, try limiting your intake of these foods or choose other foods that are also high in antioxidants but do not stain your teeth.
If drinking something that may cause stains on your teeth, take steps to limit the amount of time they remain in contact with your teeth. You might choose to use a straw for dark-coloured drinks. Avoid swishing the drink around in your mouth; instead swallow quickly, thus limiting the exposure to your teeth and lessen staining.
One of the biggest sources of teeth staining comes from the chemicals inhaled when smoking. There are no positive health aspects of smoking. If you want to keep your white smile, steer clear of tobacco products. Your entire body will thank you too.
How To Remove Surface Stains On Enamel
When the stains build up, often brushing, even with ‘teeth whitening’ toothpastes will not make a difference: a professional dental cleaning might. Dentists use special brush tips and pastes that allow them to remove surface stains that cannot be shifted with an ordinary brush. A twice-annual professional cleaning can be helpful in keeping your teeth looking their best.
Some stains are too deep in the enamel for even a professional clean to remove. If this is the case, teeth whitening may be required to improve the brightness of the teeth.
To learn more about the professional teeth whitening services that we provide, please either visit this page to learn more, or feel free to call to make an appointment with Dr Teo to discuss your situation.
More Dental Resolutions For The New Year
What other dental resolutions do we recommend for the New Year? Check out the other articles in this series:
- Brush Your Teeth Twice Daily
- Floss Your Teeth Every Day
- Consume Less Sugar
- Prevent Stains On Your Teeth (this article)
- Keep Your Teeth Safe
- Visit Your Dentist Regularly
