Are Stained Teeth Unhealthy?

Having a white smile is something everyone wants. It portrays an image of confidence and good oral health. On the other hand, stained teeth that are yellow or darkened are often seen as the opposite. But are stained teeth unhealthy?

Really, stained teeth are not always an indication of poor oral health. The opposite is true as well, as white teeth are not always an indication of good oral hygiene. Below you will find more information on what causes teeth stains, what it means about your oral health, and how you can keep your teeth white.

You may watch television or see celebrities on social media with the whitest teeth. Teeth are not naturally perfectly white and most of what you see is due to a combination of cosmetic treatments and filters. With that, most people have stains, and there are two types of teeth stains. The first type is extrinsic stains, which are on the outer surface of your teeth. The second type is intrinsic stains, and these are caused by changes in the inner layers of your teeth.

Causes of Stained Teeth

The two types of stained teeth discussed above have very different causes. Intrinsic stains are often caused by excessive fluoride use. This is much rarer as compared to extrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains, or those stains on the outside of your teeth, are most often caused by things that we do. Below are the most common causes of extrinsic stains.

Foods and Drinks:

Tea, coffee, soda, and dark juices can all stain your teeth. In addition, sugary foods like cookies, candy, and highly processed foods can also stain your teeth. So, stay away from highly processed foods and beverages that are high in sugar to keep your teeth white.

Oral Hygiene:

Poor oral hygiene can lead to your teeth looking more yellow. Focus on brushing at least twice with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Floss at least once a day and use mouthwash after you eat or drink when you cannot brush.

Smoking or Chewing:

Nicotine can stain your teeth quickly and cause your teeth to deteriorate much faster. Smoking and chewing are both bad for your teeth, so focusing on quitting or at least reducing your current amount of use can be helpful for your dental and overall health.

Genetics:

Your family history does play a part in the color of your teeth, in addition to the health of your teeth. Talk with your dentist about your family’s dental history so they can provide prevention tips unique to your oral health.

Natural Aging:

Just like the rest of your body, the effects of natural aging can impact the color of your teeth. As we age, our teeth can become more and more colored due the normal wear and tear. Talk with your dentist about whitening treatments to see if they are right for you.

Prevention Measures

In order to keep your teeth white and healthy, it’s important to focus on your oral hygiene. As mentioned, keeping your teeth clean involves brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash daily. However, it’s also important to go to your regular six months checkups as the dentist will be able to adequately monitor your oral health. Your checkup will include a teeth cleaning Arcadia, which can also help with any issues with discoloration. However, if your teeth are severely discolored, talk to your dentist about whitening treatments.

Dentist Arcadia

If you have yellow teeth and are interested in a cleaning or whitening treatment, contact Premier Dental Esthetics. Their dentists can provide you with the best care possible and ensure you get the right treatments for your unique dental needs. Contact dentist Arcadia and make an appointment today!