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Stained teeth can dim a person's smile and make them more self-conscious as they navigate the world. There are a number of factors that can lead to discolored teeth, including certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, and medical treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and high blood pressure medicines. Below are a few dental care tips for preventing and treating this common condition.

Prevention

The most effective way to prevent teeth staining is to maintain diligent dental care practices. Brush your teeth twice a day, for at least two minutes at each brushing; always floss immediately after, and rinse with mouthwash to remove any lingering bacteria that can potentially stain. See your dentist at least twice a year for checkups and professional teeth cleanings, and follow all their dental care recommendations.

Aim to limit consumption of staining foods as much as possible. Coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and dark sodas are just a few of the foods shown to cause stains. Tobacco sticks to the teeth and discolors them, so, if you're a tobacco user, consider cutting back or quitting altogether.

Treatment

dental careIf you can't remove stains through routine brushing and flossing and lifestyle changes, you have several treatment options from which to choose. A dentist can perform teeth whitening procedures that dramatically improve the appearance of your smile; these in-office procedures involve applying whitening gel to the teeth, then curing it with a laser or high-powered light.

Veneers, another popular option, are razor-thin porcelain shells affixed to the front of teeth to cover discolorations or imperfections. Your dentist can also bond your teeth, a process in which a tooth-colored composite resin is applied to conceal stains.

 

If you’re interested in keeping your teeth bright and healthy, contact Diane M. Evans, DDS, in Monroe County, NY. These skilled dentist and her team have been serving patients in the southern suburbs of Rochester, NY, since 1997. Dr. Evans offers a wide range of general and cosmetic dental care services, including preventive exams, cleanings, whitening, and restorations. Schedule an appointment by calling (585) 321-1460 or visiting her website.

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