A bright smile can be a great source of confidence, especially when meeting someone new or attending a job interview. However, after you have your teeth brightened with cosmetic dentistry, how do you keep them bright? What steps are necessary to help limit the severity of teeth stains?
Try Our Quiz on Keeping Teeth Bright
- True or False: You should be brushing and flossing daily.
- True or False: Drink more water, less soda.
- True or False: Smoking can lead to discoloration.
- True or False: Routine cleanings can help combat discoloration.
Answer Key
- True. When you brush and floss our teeth, you remove food particles and reduce the severity of plaque buildup. In addition to protecting your smile from tooth decay and gum disease, a reduction in plaque buildup also lessens the chances of serious discoloration forming.
- True. Soda, fruit juice, and energy drinks can all lead to stains. Sodas and energy drinks contain high amounts of sugar, which promote plaque buildup. In addition, fruit juice and many sodas contain dark pigments that can stain teeth. Other staining beverages include coffee, tea, and red wine. Instead, try drinking more water, which hydrates you and keeps your teeth bright. Remember, your tap water also contains fluoride, which strengthens teeth against the risk of decay.
- True. When you smoke or use other tobacco products, then teeth stains can form. In addition, remember that smoking has been linked to oral, lung, and throat cancer, among a myriad of other illnesses. We urge our patients to quit right away.
- True. Every six months you should see us for a routine visit. We can then clean your teeth, which involves removing plaque form the teeth, allowing them to appear brighter. A cleaning also limits the risk of periodontal disease.
Do You Want to Keep Your Smile Bright?
We can recommend preventive care to help your teeth stay brighter for longer periods. For more information about our treatments, from Clear Aligner Systems braces to dental implants, contact our team today. Schedule a consultation by calling Calcagno Cosmetic and Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN, today at (507) 281-3659.
