Teeth Whitening

How to Prevent Teeth Discoloration

Teeth can become discolored for a number of different reasons. Teeth usually become less white over the years due to the natural effects of the aging process. It is impossible to prevent the teeth from aging, although the effects can be reduced through teeth whitening products. However, teeth can also be discolored or stained by certain lifestyle factors. The effects of these can be prevented from discoloring the teeth by ensuring that the teeth are well cared for and that anything which may stain the teeth is avoided.

In order to keep the teeth clean and healthy, and therefore to prevent them from becoming discolored, they should be brushed thoroughly twice a day. The teeth should also be flossed daily in order to clean the surfaces which brushing cannot reach. In addition, it is a good idea to visit a dentist regularly in order to ensure that there are no problems with the teeth or gums which could lead to discoloration. If these problems are recognized early, they will be much easier to treat and it is, therefore, possible to prevent the teeth from losing their natural whiteness. A dentist can also help by professionally cleaning the teeth in order to keep them as clean and healthy as possible.

Avoiding foods and drinks that may cause the teeth to become stained and discolored is another means of keeping them as white as possible. It is best to avoid eating or drinking these items as much as possible. Dark colored sodas, red wine, coffee and tea can all stain the teeth. The teeth can also become discolored if acidic drinks such as fruit juices are commonly consumed since the acid they contain can soften the tooth enamel. If the white enamel is damaged, the teeth can become discolored as the yellow dentin underneath is exposed. Acidic food and drink can also enable the food and drink that can result in stains to penetrate further into the teeth, which can lead to worse discoloration. When eating or drinking acidic foods or ones that may stain the teeth, it is a good idea to flush the mouth out with water afterwards. It can also be helpful to rinse the mouth after eating. A mouthwash containing fluoride can be particularly helpful, as can the use of baking soda to remove stains from the surface of the teeth.

Smoking can also result in the discoloration of the teeth. It is best to avoid smoking in order to prevent the teeth from becoming discolored.

Tooth discoloration cannot always be prevented. It is possible to whiten discolored teeth using teeth whitening products. Some of these are available over the counter for use at home, while others are administered by dentists. However, the duration of the effects of a teeth whitening product will depend on how well the teeth are cared for after the treatment has been administered. The effect will last longer if new discoloration is prevented by avoiding smoking and the foods and drinks that are known to cause discoloration, and if the teeth are well cared for in the future.