Posted: October 16, 2024
A bright, white smile is a great confidence booster, but certain habits and everyday choices can cause teeth to stain. While discoloration is a natural part of aging, there are plenty of ways to keep your smile looking fresh and vibrant. By making small changes to your routine, you can prevent teeth staining and maintain your pearly whites.
1. Be Mindful of Staining Foods and Drinks
What you eat and drink has a big impact on the color of your teeth. Certain foods and drinks contain pigments that stick to your enamel and cause discoloration.
Food and drinks to be mindful of to avoid staining your teeth:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red wine
- Dark sodas
- Berries
- Soy sauce
- Tomato-based sauces
While foods like berries, soy sauce, and tomato-based sauces can be considered healthy, rinsing your mouth with water afterward can help keep stains from setting in.
Likewise, using a straw for beverages like coffee, tea, or wine, can reduce direct contact with your teeth and help prevent stains. It’s also a good idea to rinse your mouth with water after drinking these beverages to wash away any lingering pigments.
2. Stay Consistent with Your Oral Care Routine
Keeping up with regular brushing and flossing is one of the best ways to prevent teeth staining. Brush at least twice a day with a toothpaste designed to remove surface stains.
Electric toothbrushes, for example, are especially good at this, as they can often remove plaque more effectively than many manual brushes.
Flossing daily is just as important because it removes food particles and plaque that can lead to discoloration. If you want an extra boost, consider using a mouthwash that helps prevent stains from building up over time.
3. Limit Tobacco Use
Tobacco is one of the main causes of stubborn tooth stains. Smoking or chewing tobacco not only affects your health but also leads to long-lasting yellow and brown stains on your teeth. Over time, these stains can be tough to remove. Cutting back on tobacco use—or quitting altogether—can greatly improve the appearance of your teeth.
4. Use Whitening Products Wisely
If your teeth have started to stain, there are plenty of over-the-counter whitening products available, such as toothpaste, strips, or gels. These products can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile when used as part of your routine. Look for products that are safe for everyday use and always follow the instructions carefully to avoid damage to your enamel.
Schedule Regular Cleanings with Your Dentist
Professional cleanings help keep your teeth looking their best. Even with diligent brushing and flossing, plaque and tartar can build up in hard-to-reach areas, contributing to discoloration. A visit to the dentist every six months can help remove these deposits and prevent stains from forming. For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact our office via our contact form or call 403-407-5730.
*all procedures performed at our practice by a general dentist