Achieving a healthy, confident smile is something we all desire, but many people face the challenge of discolored teeth. This unsightly distraction can be caused by various factors, such as our dietary choices, habits, and oral hygiene practices. In this blog post, your Rochester, MN, dentist explores the different types of stains that occur in the mouth, their underlying causes, and discus’s ways to prevent and address them effectively.
Why Are There Different Colors?
Pigments are caused by certain bacteria. They can often be traced back to poor oral hygiene habits or eating foods and beverages that support bacterial growth. One type of stain is the green line stain. It appears as thin, greenish lines along the gum line. Another type, orange line stains, can be seen as orange or reddish lines on the teeth. They are caused by iron compounds, which can result from taking certain medications or consuming iron-rich, acidic foods and drinks. Sometimes iron stains can also be black. Yellow stains are the most common type of dental discoloration and can occur on the outer and inner surfaces of teeth. They are often caused by factors such as poor plaque removal, drinking things like coffee and tea, and age-related changes like thinning enamel.
What Can You Do?
Consistent oral care routines, along with reducing the intake of dark colored substances, can help prevent and manage unsightly pigments. There are over-the-counter whitening rinses and toothpastes that can also help. Do be aware that some of these products can cause sensitivity or worsen conditions such as dry mouth. Using an electric toothbrush, regular dental check-ups, and treatment options like bonding or veneers can help manage and improve the appearance of stains. Wearing a night guard can also prevent the wear of enamel which then exposes the next layers of the tooth making them appear darker.
How Can We Help?
At your dental examination we will identify the cause of discoloration distracting from your smile. We provide thorough dental cleanings using ultrasonic devices that gently clean and remove plaque and tarter which trap stains and bacteria. After that, professional teeth whitening treatments can be provided. We offer the Sinsational Smile system to professionally whiten your teeth in office. This system gets your to your brightest white. Sometimes a stain is deep within the tooth and a dental restoration such as a composite or veneer may be necessary. To maintain your whitening results, education is important to our dental team. We will take time to discuss proper tools, products and techniques to keep your mouth healthy.
Let Us Brighten Your Smile
Don’t let stained teeth be a distraction in your smile. Let us treat your discoloration and illuminate your smile. For personalized advice and treatment options, call Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry in Rochester, MN at (507) 281-3659.
