We often talk in our blog about how to remove stains, whether via professional whitening services or by masking them with a lifelike veneer. However, addressing stains is only part of the solution. Patients need to be aware of what habits can lead to discoloration and then take steps to safeguard their smiles. What bad habits can lead to teeth stains? You may be surprised.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Bad Habits that can Cause Stained Teeth
Question: Does what we drink stain our teeth?
Answer: Yes. Some drinks can contain dark pigments that will lead to discoloration. Coffee, soda, tea, red wine, and even fruit juice are examples of drinks that you may need to cut back on to keep your smile bright.
Question: Can my diet lead to discoloration?
Answer: When you eat foods high in sugar and other starches, bacteria can consume the particles and coat the teeth in plaque. The buildup can then make stains more apparent, in addition to weakening tooth enamel and inflaming the gums.
Question: What if I smoke?
Answer: Smoking or using tobacco products can definitely cause unsightly yellow stains to appear. However, even more serious, tobacco products can increase the risk of oral cancer, as well as throat and lung cancer. We urge our patients to quit smoking immediately.
Question: Can not seeing the dentist lead to stained teeth?
Answer: Yes. When you see the dentist every six months we can perform a thorough cleaning, which helps keep your teeth brighter (in addition to reducing your risk of gum disease and tooth decay). In addition, we can also discuss cosmetic solutions to discoloration. If you have any questions or if you would like to schedule a visit, give us a call today.
ABOUT YOUR WINNETKA, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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