Avoiding discolored teeth is much more complicated than one might think. While discoloration of the tooth can occur when the root dies due to injury, we often see discoloration stemming from eating certain foods and drinking certain beverages.
So what do you specifically need to avoid if you don’t want discolored teeth? Are there treatments for a stained smile if you do have that issue? The simple answer is that there is a solution to both questions.
Here’s a brief overview of what you need to know about discolored teeth from the team at Mark McCarthy, DMD!
What foods and drinks cause teeth staining?
Unfortunately, a lot of the most popular food and beverage options out there will cause some sort of discoloration to your teeth over time. A good rule of thumb is that if it has a lot of bright color, there’s a good chance it will stain your teeth.
Foods that stain your teeth include tomato sauce, buffalo sauce, curry, soy sauce, blueberries, and raspberries. Beverages that stain teeth include coffee, tea, cola, and red wine. These are just some of the offenders, as this list can constantly change and go on and on. But a good rule of thumb is that if it can stain a carpet, there’s a possibility that it can also stain the surfaces of your smile over time.
If you have more questions or concerns, please ask our team! Our Hygienists will be more than happy to discuss how to best avoid staining your teeth, so you get the most out of your cleanings and daily brushing habits!
How to tell if you have discolored teeth
Is there a yellow tint on your smile that you cannot eliminate, no matter how much you brush or floss? Believe it or not, this is a widespread problem we see. People buy the most expensive whitening toothpaste and gum out there, yet still, even though their teeth are healthy and clean, they cannot seem to brighten their smile.
If you go to the dentist regularly, brush every day, live an active life, and still can’t seem to brighten your smile, there’s a good chance your teeth are discolored or stained.
I have discolored teeth; what can I do to fix them?
Teeth whitening treatment is the best way to brighten your smile once it is stained or discolored. Luckily whitening is affordable on most incomes and can be done at home or in as little as one office visit! Finding your solution to a brighter smile really is as simple as asking your dental Hygienist about whitening treatment at your next appointment!
Take-Home Whitening Kits: These are versatile, easy, and some of the most price-efficient whitening solutions. Take-home whitening kits produce great, long-lasting results. However, they will not last quite as long as in-office treatments.
In-Office Whitening: There are many different types of whitening offered by dentists. While these treatments might be a little more expensive, they yield the best results and last the longest.
This is a very brief overview of just some of the whitening options available to you at most dental offices. If you still aren’t sure about whitening, are nervous about the treatment, or aren’t sure about which option fits your budget best, we’ll be more than happy to go over the different options with you!
Book an appointment at Mark McCarthy, DMD!
At Mark McCarthy, DMD, we understand how frustrating having a stained smile can be. You might leave the office feeling refreshed after a cleaning, but when you look in the mirror, you still see that yellow tint in your smile even though you feel terrific!
Give Mark McCarthy, DMD a call or book an appointment online today, and we’ll help you find the best way to achieve the bright smile you’ve always wanted!
