Chances are, you have dealt with teeth stains before, or will in the future. This isn’t necessarily a testament to how well you take care of your teeth; on the contrary, your teeth can stain even if you practice excellent hygiene. Your food and beverages are the most common sources of teeth stains. While you might recognize darker substances as potential teeth stainers, the truth is that all of your meals and beverages have the potential to blemish your smile.
What Else Is In Your Meals?
Naturally, the color of your food is the reason why your teeth stain. At least, in part. This color is dictated by molecules called chromogens, which are strongly pigmented according to how rich your food’s color is. Chromogens have a tendency to attach themselves to tooth enamel, the semi-translucent outer layer of your teeth. To exacerbate matters, the acids in your meals, as well as the acids produced by oral bacteria when you eat, can weaken tooth enamel, making it easier to stain.
Take Action to Keep Teeth Bright
It is not advisable to stop eating in order to avoid chromogens. Instead, take a few precautionary steps to protect your teeth’s brilliant appearance, and you can avoid or prolong the need for professional teeth-whitening.
- After every meal and snack, rinse your mouth with water to dislodge food particles and rinse away acids and chromogens
- Be sure to brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day, and after each meal if time allows
- When you brush, use fluoridated toothpaste, which can strengthen tooth enamel against acid attacks and chromogen staining
- If you receive teeth whitening to erase existing stains, then ask us about a take-home kit that will allow you to touch up your smile if stains appear again