Treasure Map To White Teeth
by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
Read Treasure Map To White Teeth by Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D. to learn more about Grove Smiles® Dentistry and our Dentistry office in Coconut Grove, FL.
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Bleach strip, brush, gargle, rinse, repeat. These are just the routine steps we take to achieve our sparkling white smile. But what about the other steps that may have us taking five steps forward and four back?
Yes, we are speaking today about the other factors hindering you from achieving that one-in-a-million knockout smile.
What Are The Hindrances To Achieving My Zoom!® White Smile?
Although there are several causes for tooth discoloration, we can separate them into three basic categories: intrinsic, extrinsic, and age-related discoloration.
Here’s how each affects your teeth and what you can do to ensure a life full of bright, healthy smiles.
The Largest Contributors To Surface Stains Are Food And Drink
Extrinsic tooth discoloration occurs when the enamel—the outer layer of the tooth—becomes stained. These discolorations can often be caused by pigments, acidic content, and other chemical factors (natural or artificial) present in things we enjoy eating and drinking.
A few common culprits for tooth discoloration include:
Dark-colored juices
Cola
Sports drinks
Hard Candy
Berries
Tomato Sauce
Wine, Coffee, and Tea
*All adults and up-and-coming adults should also be mindful when consuming wine, coffee, and tea, as they can cause tooth discoloration. Most of these items won’t immediately affect the color of your teeth, but over time, they can begin to wear away and cling to enamel, causing unsightly stains. Try to consume these in moderation, and always remember to drink plenty of water and brush your teeth after meals.
Inside-Out Stains Due To Injury and Medication
Intrinsic tooth discoloration occurs when the dentin’s inner structure—the dentin—begins to darken or develop a yellow tint. This type of stain can develop because of the trauma sustained to the tooth. Sometimes, when a tooth suffers trauma during childhood, it can damage the permanent tooth beneath it, affecting its color. If the injury happens during adulthood, internal bleeding can potentially discolor the damaged tooth.
Other causes include the use of medication at certain stages of life or being born with a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta which can cause gray, amber, or purple discolorations. If you have questions about intrinsic discoloration, come in and see us to help answer your questions.
Age Can Matter
Age-related tooth discoloration is a combination of both internal and external factors. The dentin inside our teeth naturally yellows as we age. The enamel on the outside of our teeth thins as we age, which allows the yellow pigment of the dentin to show through. A lifetime of consuming certain foods and drinks or smoking cigarettes will also contribute to deep-set stains on the enamel’s surface.
Ready To Help Brighten Your Smile in Coconut Grove, FL
We know just how important it is to provide our patients with bright, healthy smiles. Each situation is unique, so we offer innovative solutions to your unique oral health needs at Grove Smiles Dentistry in Coconut Grove, FL. If you have any questions about your smile’s appearance or how to achieve the brilliant diamond-white smile, call and make an appointment today!
For Your Health,
Dr. Rita Dargham D.M.D.
