A study conducted on behalf of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry found that nearly half of the adults involved (48%) claimed that after meeting somebody new, that person’s smile remained their most memorable feature. Moreover, the memory of their pearly whites was more significant than the first thing that they said.
With National Smile Month running between 17th May and 17th June, let’s explore how to keep those teeth bright and healthy so the next time you meet someone new, they remember your smile for all of the right reasons.
What Are Stained Teeth?
Staining refers to the discolouration or darkening of teeth, moving them away from their natural white colour, to shades of yellow, brown or grey. Tooth staining falls into three distinct categories: extrinsic, intrinsic and age-related.
Extrinsic staining is caused by lifestyle choices and affects the enamel, or surface, of the tooth. Conversely, intrinsic discolouration occurs within the tooth, resulting from injury, certain medications, tooth decay and, in some cases, genetics. Age-related teeth staining is often the culmination of years’ worth of extrinsic and intrinsic factors.
Five Common Causes Of Teeth Discolouration
Food And Drink
Various things that we eat and drink can cause extrinsic staining. Food and drink residue can accumulate in the film of protein that covers the tooth enamel. Coffee, tea, wine, bread, pasta and other starchy foods are notable examples of this.
Tobacco Use
The nicotine and tar found in tobacco are absorbed into the microscopic pores found in the teeth, causing a yellow or brown discolouration. Nicotine itself is colourless, however, when it mixes with oxygen, it turns yellow. This means that even electronic cigarettes containing nicotine may stain teeth.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Forgetting to brush and floss leads to a buildup of plaque and tartar which can appear yellow or brown in colour. Food stains that are not addressed lead to further discolouration. Stained teeth often contain cavities so it is important to arrange an appointment with your dentist to address these more serious issues.
Disease And Medication
Certain diseases prevent the development of tooth enamel and dentin, the porous core found under the enamel, which often results in discolouration. Medical treatments such as chemotherapy may also cause teeth staining.
Ageing
Tooth enamel wears away as we age, exposing the darker dentin found beneath. Years of food and drink staining adds to the discolouration. The margins where a filling meets the tooth can change shape over time, attracting foods that cause staining and harbouring plaque. It is important to replace old fillings to prevent these problems from occurring.
Solutions To Teeth Staining At Yew Tree Dental
Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening is one of our most popular cosmetic procedures. We provide these treatments at our clinic or in the form of a home whitening kit. The severity of your teeth staining and the results you hope to achieve will determine which type of treatment we recommend.
At the clinic, your dentist will apply light-activated gel containing hydrogen peroxide directly to your teeth. A light source causes a reaction in the gel which, in turn, reacts with the teeth to brighten the enamel. Heat accelerates the process, resulting in faster and long-lasting whitening.
Home whitening involves wearing trays containing a small amount of whitening gel for up to two weeks. The trays are custom-made for your mouth, ensuring the treatment is as comfortable as possible.
Porcelain Veneers
Acting like tooth-shaped covers, Porcelain Veneers sit over the entire front surface of the teeth. Rather than treating the existing stains, veneers disguise your natural teeth, covering them with white porcelain.
Your dentist will take digital scans of your teeth in order for the veneers to be made. Treatment begins by preparing your teeth in order to snugly fit the veneers. These are then applied with adhesive glue, giving you the dazzling smile you have always dreamed of having.
Book An Appointment At Yew Tree Dental
During National Smile Month, put your oral hygiene first. Yew Tree Dental offers teeth whitening, veneers and many more treatments which will bring out your brightest smile. Call 01753 522500 to discuss your options with one of our experienced team members. Alternatively, make an enquiry through our website and we will get straight back to you.