Do you ever feel self-conscious about your smile because your teeth aren’t as white as you’d like them to be? Fret not, it happens to the best of us.
And, it can be quite a frustrating sight to see discolored teeth when you are doing all the right things like regular and proper brush-floss-mouthwash routine.
We hate to break it to you but, unfortunately, and unknowingly, there are a few habits you might be engaging in that could be costing you your perfect smile. But that’s okay! We all are guilty of some things. The key is to be aware of them and strive to avoid or at least minimize the effects.
Moving on to our point of discussion, let’s have a look at six habits that you must avoid as they might be staining your teeth….
1. Sipping on coffee
Like most people, we all crave a cup of coffee first thing in the morning. But did you know that coffee comes with dark pigments that can cling right onto your tooth enamel and cause staining?
Don’t worry, we are not asking you to give up your coffee addiction! Just try drinking it through a straw or make sure you are rinsing your mouth with water after your dose of morning coffee to wash the stains away.
2. Red wine
Sometimes all we need is a nice, relaxing glass of red wine to unwind after a long, tiring day at the office. But that one glass of red wine can become the very reason behind our whining about the staining of teeth. Wondering why?
Unfortunately, the dark pigments in red wine have a sneaking way of getting to our teeth and making them look dull and grey. However, you don’t really have to give up entirely but rather be cautious. Our dentists suggest to sip on water in between your wine sips so as to wash any pigment that might have stuck onto your teeth. Also, it will keep you hydrated, too!
Alternatively, you can pair your meals with white wine instead. It is less likely to cause staining and you will get your much-needed wine fix too.
3. Popsicles
Are you a fan of icy treats on scorching hot summer days? Popsicles are definitely a refreshing choice, but have you ever noticed the pesky stains they can leave on your teeth?
Think about it – have you ever enjoyed a red popsicle, only to later discover that your teeth are now all coated in red. That’s what we are talking about!
The vibrant colours of popsicles come from artificial dyes, which can be stubborn to remove from teeth. But don’t worry, there are ways to still enjoy your favorite frozen treat without putting your pearly whites in jeopardy.
But fear not, there are ways to enjoy your popsicles without sacrificing your pearly whites. Try going for popsicles made with natural colors or perhaps eat them in moderation. As and when you eat, make sure you rinse your mouth with water or brush your teeth after 20 minutes to remove any lingering stains.
4. Sodas
You’ve most probably heard about how you can remove rust off from an engine using sodas! Well, that’s certainly not a joke. Now, imagine the kind of havoc it can wreck onto your teeth.
This is because they are highly acidic in nature. For example, Coke or Fanta, both happen to be filled with artificial dyes and are extremely high in sugar content. The dyes can cause teeth staining and the sugar content can result in decay. Even the ones marked as diet or sugar-free sodas can lead to a whole lot of problems. They might have low or no sugar content but we can’t ignore the artificial dyes they contain.
Key takeaway? It is best to avoid consuming them for good! And if you’re really craving a soda, try swapping it out for a healthier alternative, maybe natural, fresh fruit juices, sparkling water, or unsweetened tea.
5. Sushi
Who could have thought that consuming sushi can cause staining, right? But, it is true. However, it is not the fish that is the culprit but the garnishing accompanying it.
Soy sauce, which is often used as a dipping sauce for sushi can cause the enamel to wear down, making it prone to staining. Its acidic nature and frequent consumption can contribute to tooth discoloration.
Wasabi, another major ingredient found in sushi, can stain teeth. Derived from a Japanese plant’s stem, it is a green-coloured paste served as a condiment with sushi. The colour is quite intense and can cause staining onto your teeth.
The takeaway? Be easy on the sushi… moderation is the key here, folks!
6. Skipping dental visit
We get it that you might be brushing religiously, but what if we tell you that there are some stain-causing disgusting things you can’t get rid off the teeth on your own? Yes, visiting a dentist for a check-up can feel like a task. But skipping on them can actually do more harm than good. Our expert dentists recommend professional teeth cleanings every six months, so missing them should be out of the question if you are looking to not have unsightly stains on your teeth.
Trust us that going to the dentist on a regular basis is well worth it in the long run. Not only will it prevent staining but you’ll leave with a bright, healthy smile that you’ll be proud to show off! So, make that appointment with us now and treat your teeth to a nice, cleaning sesh.
It is pertinent to mention that while there are many over-the-counter teeth whitening products available, most dentists at Dentakay recommend professional teeth whitening to acquire perfect teeth results.
Zoom teeth whitening, a highly effective treatment can help improve the appearance of your teeth in just one session. It uses a combination of special gel and light technology, which can lift deep stains and discoloration to reveal a brighter, whiter smile.
In conclusion…
While it may seem almost difficult to give up some of these habits, making at least a conscious effort can make all the difference. Try to reduce their impact or find alternatives to retain the brightness and maintain the whiteness of the teeth.
On another note, remember that prevention is always better than cure. So, inculcate a new habit from now on; which is to make sure to take care of your teeth by making regular visits to one of our dentists for professional cleaning and maintenance. With a little effort and care, you can keep your smile as bright as the summer sun!
