It’s no secret that teeth discoloration is a common problem in Westfield, New Jersey. According to the American Dental Association, it affects nearly half of all adults in the United States. While there are many ways to treat teeth discoloration, prevention is always better than cure. Here are four actionable ways to prevent teeth discoloration from happening in the first place. Seeking guidance from a Westfield teeth whitening specialist is a good starting point.
Keep an Eye on Caffeine Intake
While it’s certainly fine to enjoy your daily dose of coffee or tea, you should be careful how much caffeine you’re ingesting. Excessive caffeine intake can cause teeth discoloration over time, mainly if you drink your caffeinated beverages regularly. Instead of drinking a lot of coffee/tea, you can mix it up with either caffeinated or non-caffeinated drinks. For example, enjoy your favorite cup of tea but substitute coffee for decaf or water. Limiting your caffeine intake can also prevent teeth staining.
Red wine is another beverage that can cause teeth discoloration. The tannins in red wine are notorious for staining teeth, so it’s best to avoid drinking it if you’re concerned about preserving your smile. If you do enjoy a glass of red wine now and then, make sure to drink plenty of water afterward and brush your teeth immediately afterward.
Chewing Sugarless Gum
Chewing sugarless gum after meals will help remove food particles stuck between your teeth and gums, thus preventing them from becoming discolored over time. Since excessive amounts of sugar are harmful to your oral health, chewing sugarless gum allows you to exercise your jaw, reduce stress levels, and clean your teeth without harming tooth enamel.
Regular Brushing and Flossing
One of the simplest ways to prevent teeth discoloration is by brushing your teeth at least twice a day using fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride reduces enamel demineralization, which helps protect it from further damage and stave off the appearance of unsightly stains.
In addition to brushing your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste, you should also floss at least once a day. Daily flossing will help remove food particles and plaque stuck between your teeth and gums. It will also keep them from turning yellow over time.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly for Professional Cleanings
One of the best ways to prevent teeth stains is by getting professional cleanings every six months. During professional cleanings, your dentist will thoroughly clean and polish your teeth, remove any stubborn stains and tartar build-up, and check for signs of cavities and gum disease. Professional teeth cleaning not only removes stains but also keeps your gums healthy by preventing the onset of periodontal disease – a common culprit behind stained teeth.
Choose the Right Mouthwash for Your Teeth
In addition to daily brushing and flossing, you should also use an alcohol-free mouthwash twice a day. Mouthwashes typically contain ingredients such as fluoride or essential oils that help reduce the formation of stains over time. Try using a whitening mouthwash in conjunction with your regular oral hygiene routine for best results.
If you’re looking for ways to prevent teeth discoloration, there are various things you can do. If you want to avoid caffeine and other beverages that stain your teeth over time, mix it up with decaf or water instead. You should also brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste and floss at least once per day. Besides, professional cleanings every six months are the best way to keep stains from developing on your teeth permanently.