Are your teeth losing their dazzling whiteness? In that case, you might want to watch what you’re eating. Certain foods have a reputation for discoloring teeth. The main causes of teeth stains are acids and chromogens, which are substances that can readily be converted into colored compounds.
Here are some foods that contain high amounts of these teeth-staining components. The bad news is that many of these foods are treats that we consume every day. The good news? There are simple remedies that can help minimize their staining potential.
Coffee and Tea
Over time, daily coffee drinkers often see their teeth turning slightly yellow. Because tooth enamel is very porous, the coffee you drink gets absorbed into these pores, thus causing discoloration. Tea, according to dentists, though beneficial to our health in many ways, causes even more severe staining than coffee. Both coffee and tea are also highly acidic; this causes erosion of tooth enamel, which leaves teeth even more vulnerable to discoloration. It's a vicious cycle for caffeine lovers.
Carbonated Drinks
The acid and chromogens in fizzy drinks are what stains teeth. While dark-colored sodas like root beers and colas have more chromogens, even light-colored carbonated beverages will increase staining. Colas contain phosphoric acid while lemon or lime flavored sodas are laden with citric acid. Both of these acids can cause erosion of a tooth's surface, known as the enamel. Weakened enamel increases the absorption of chromogens, contributing to staining.
DID YOU KNOW?
Water, tea and coffee are the three most-consumed beverages in the world. It’s estimated that between 400-500 billion cups of coffee are drunk globally every year.
Wine and Berries
Intensely pigmented fruit like grapes, blueberries, cherries, blackberries and pomegranates have powerful staining potential. Juices made from such fruits also contribute to staining and discoloration. In particular, watch out for red wine. The combination of pigmented molecules called tannins, chromogens and high acidity levels make red wine a notorious teeth stainer.
Candies, Chewing Gum and Popsicles
Sugary treats like these can contain high levels of teeth-staining artificial coloring agents. The rule of thumb is, if it stains your tongue, it is a food that stains teeth. So the next time you want to treat your child, buy a vanilla ice-cream instead of a sugary frozen ice block.
It may be difficult to give up so many of your favorite treats, and therefore keeping your teeth stain-free is almost impossible. Thankfully, you can decrease the staining potential of these foods by taking the following precautions:
Avoid lingering
Reduce the chances of staining by avoiding foods and beverages to linger in your mouth longer than necessary. Naturally, don’t forget to chew carefully before swallowing.
Use a Straw for Sodas, Ice Teas and Ice Coffees
Whenever you can, use a straw while drinking beverages like sodas, teas and coffees. This way, the discoloring fluids have as little contact with your enamel as possible, so the risk of blemishes is reduced.
After Eating, Rinse and Brush
Immediately after consuming teeth-staining or acidic foods, rinse your mouth with water for about 30 seconds or use a mouthwash, then brush the teeth to remove any remaining colored particles.
Could your smile be brighter? Find out how to turn your smile from drab to dazzling, just by adding some brightening power to your regular oral care routine.
The easiest ways to brighten your teeth are to floss daily, see your dentist regularly and brush with a whitening toothpaste. The use of a whitening toothpaste like Colgate® Visible White O2 can help to remove mild surface stains that stem from the delicious but discoloring things we consume every day, like coffee, tea and dark colored foods.
Need more ideas?
Get a 360-degree change (with the right toothpaste)
Brushing with a normal toothpaste can help keep your teeth clean and white; all toothpastes have mild whitening benefits. Abrasive action and polishing from brushing, along with a professional dentist cleaning, are effective methods for removing some external stains.
A whitening toothpaste contains additional chemical or polishing agents to help make teeth whiter. Brush twice daily with a whitening toothpaste that also helps to fight cavities and reduces plaque, and you'll not only be whitening your teeth, but also practicing good dental care.
4 tips for a brighter routine
You can use a toothbrush like Colgate® 360 for that extra special polishing action. With soft rubber cups to hold the whitening toothpaste and polishing bristles for more effective stain removal, you can easily take the brightening regimen to the next level.
See your dentist every six months. Regular cleanings help to remove discoloration of the teeth due to external staining factors.
To prevent stains from returning, try cutting back on some of the common causes of tooth discoloration, like red wine, coffee, tea and tobacco.
If giving up coffee will turn you into bleary-eyed zombie, simply rinsing your mouth out with water after drinking your morning cup can help reduce yellowing of the teeth.
Dazzling dental help
If you want to try other options like in-office bleaching or whitening gels for more dramatic results, make an appointment with your dentist. They’ll talk you through the whitening treatments that are right for your smile.
Toothaches can be a minor tinge letting you know that something is wrong or they can cause crippling pain… that’s why we wanted to share some common toothache causes and their symptoms.
What is a toothache? Pain or inflammation in or around the tooth, often caused by tooth decay or infection.
What are common toothache causes?
A toothache can have causes that aren’t due to underlying disease. Examples may include flossing, biting into something hard, getting something stuck in between the teeth, or braces. In children, it’s a regular part of the developmental process.
Common Toothache Causes:
Sensitive Teeth
Tooth decay
Inflammation of tooth pulp
Tooth fracture
Broken tooth
Abscessed tooth
Infected gums or gum disease
Damaged filling
Impacted tooth
Repetitive motions, such as chewing gum or grinding teeth
Non-dental related issues, such as sinus congestion or infection
Common Symptoms of a Toothache:
Tooth pain that may be sharp, throbbing, or constant
Tooth pain while chewing
In some people, pain results only when pressure is applied to the tooth
Foul-tasting drainage from the infected tooth
Hot or cold sensitivity
Swelling around the tooth or swelling in your jaw
Bleeding or discharge from around a tooth or gums
Fever or headache
Injury or trauma to the area
When Should I See a Dentist About a Toothache?
We recommend seeing your dentist as soon as possible about your toothache if:
Your toothache is severe
You have consistent tooth pain that lasts longer than 1 or 2 days
Inflammation increases
Swelling occurs around your jaw or face
Redness occurs around the gums or your gums are bleeding
You have a fever, earache
If you notice that a tooth is broken, cracked or chipped
You experience pain upon opening your mouth wide
Dull, persistent pain can be a sign of something that will get worse if not treated
You’ve suffered a recent trauma to your face or mouth
How do I stop my tooth from throbbing?
Before you’re able to get into your dentist’s office, try these self-care tips for some temporary relief:
Rinse your mouth with warm salt water
Gently floss to remove built up plaque or food between teeth
Apply a cold compress to your cheek or jaw
Take an over-the-counter pain medication, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and aspirin can relieve minor pain
Numbing pastes or gels (benzocaine) can help to dull the pain
What Happens When I Go to the Dentist for a Toothache?
First, your dentist will conduct a dental exam. He or she will ask you questions about the pain, such as:
when the pain started
where the pain is located
how severe it is
what makes the pain worse and what makes it better
does the pain wake you up in the middle of the night
Your dentist will examine:
your mouth, teeth and gums
jaws, tongue and throat
sinuses, ears, nose, and neck
X-rays may be taken as well as other tests, depending on what your dentist suspects is causing your toothache.
What Treatments Are Available for a Toothache?
Treatment for a toothache depends on the cause or source of pain. If a cavity is causing the toothache, your dentist will remove the decay, fill the cavity or possibly extract the tooth, but only if there is no way to save the tooth.
A root canal may be necessary if the cause of the toothache is from an infection of the tooth’s nerve. Bacteria that have worked their way into the inner areas of the tooth cause that type of infection. An antibiotic may be prescribed if there is fever or swelling in the jaw to get rid of the infection.
How Can Toothaches Be Prevented?
Tooth decay causes most toothaches, so following a good oral hygiene routine can prevent most toothaches.
Good oral hygiene practices consist of:
brushing teeth twice daily with a fluoride toothpaste
flossing daily
rinsing once or twice each day with an antiseptic mouthwash
seeing your dentist twice a year for professional cleaning and exam
Gently brushing your teeth with a soft bristle brush and fluoride toothpaste will remove the plaque and bacteria are toothache causes to begin with. In addition to these practices, ask your dentist about fluoride treatments and sealant applications and make healthy food, snack and beverage choices that are low in sugar.
Some of your body’s most sensitive nerves are inside your teeth. That’s why pain, throbbing and sensitivity you experience during a toothache is so hard to ignore.
If you’re experiencing pain in or around a tooth, make an appointment with your dentist as soon as you can. While you wait for your appointment, over-the-counter pain medication may be able to provide you temporary relief. You can also try using a cold compress on your cheek or rinsing your mouth with warm salt water.
What causes a toothache?
Tooth decay due to poor oral health care is the most common source.
Broken, chipped or cracked teeth can result from an injury or accident, chewing on hard items such as ice, or grinding your teeth.
Infected gums from bacteria buildup can cause pain, bleeding and swelling.
Damaged fillings that are worn, chipped or cracked may cause your teeth to feel sensitive.
Tooth abscess happens when a pocket of pus forms around the tooth due to poor dental hygiene, dry mouth or a high-sugar diet.
If the general discomfort of a toothache doesn’t get you to the dentist, the potential complications of ignoring a toothache might.
What could happen if you delay seeing a dentist
Greater cost and pain. An untreated toothache could lead to more extensive and costly dental procedures, like root canals and crowns, or even in tooth loss.
Infection that can spread. Toothaches can result in infections that can spread to your jaw, face, neck, heart and brain. Signs of a spreading infection may include a fever, headache, fatigue, dizziness, swelling, dehydration, rapid breathing, increased heart rate and stomach pain.
Life-threatening conditions. In rare cases, an untreated toothache can take a turn for the worse. You could develop a condition called sepsis, which happens when an infection causes an intense toxic response from your immune system. Sepsis can lead to septic shock and even death.
If you have a severe toothache — one that lasts longer than a day — get help right away. A toothache accompanied by a fever of 103 degrees or higher, along with symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, a skin rash or repeated vomiting, may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. Seek immediate treatment from a physician if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.
Some oral infections are common from childhood to adulthood. Learn about eight common oral infections, their signs and symptoms, and when to seek treatment.
Like any part of your body, you can get infections and illnesses that can affect your teeth, gums, and tongue. Some oral infections are more serious than others. But arming yourself with the knowledge of these common mouth infections, their causes, and typical signs can help you prevent them.
1. Dental Caries or Cavities
Dental caries—also known as cavities—are holes in your teeth that form from tooth decay, and cavities are one of the most common oral infections. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, dental caries can lead to losing baby teeth (also known as primary teeth) in children, and holes due to tooth decay can be caused by the bacteria "Streptococcus mutans," which feed on sugary, sticky foods and beverages. Did you know that carbohydrates also break down into sugar in your system? Common foods like chips or rice, break down into glucose in your body. So, the more sugar that you consume throughout the day, the more acid the bacteria produces, which leads to further decay.
2. Gingivitis
Gingivitis, also known as early gum disease, is a mouth infection in the gums that can lead to more serious periodontal disease. Gingivitis develops when bacteria settle in the gumline, and those bacteria produce toxins. These toxins cause inflammation and swelling in the gums, but common signs to look out for are bleeding gums when you brush your teeth since your gumline is sensitive due to the Gingivitis. Gingivitis can be prevented by removing that bacteria at the gumline and below with flossing and brushing. And Gingivitis can be treated at your dentist's office too.
3. Periodontal Disease
Consider Gingivitis a warning sign to work on recalibrating a healthy mouth because it can lead to periodontal issues. Periodontal disease develops when an oral infection spreads below the gumline to affect the bone and supporting tissues. Gums start to recede from the teeth, and pockets form, leading to further inflammation and bone loss so teeth can loosen. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), up to 47.2% of adults age 30 and older have had periodontal disease, which is the most common cause of tooth loss in adults.
4. Thrush
Thrush is caused by an overgrowth of the naturally occurring "Candida albicans." Medical treatments, such as antibiotics, chemotherapy, and radiation, can trigger outbreaks. Common symptoms include white, curd-like plaques on the inner cheeks, tongue, roof of the mouth, and back of the throat. People who have HIV are at higher risk of developing thrush.
5. Hand, Foot, and Mouth Disease
Hand, Foot, and Mouth disease is a viral infection in the mouth and other parts of the body that typically affects toddlers and school-aged children, according to the University of Chicago. It is likely caused by the virus "Coxsackie A16." It sounds scary, but the infection often disappears within three days. After a couple of days of sore throat and fever, slightly painful blisters develop inside the cheeks, on the tongue, palms, soles of the feet, and buttocks.
6. Herpangina
Herpangina is an infection in the mouth related to hand, foot, and mouth disease. Typical first symptoms include fever, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Those symptoms are followed by tiny blisters at the back of the mouth. Those blisters can form large ulcers when they burst. Herpangina most frequently affects children aged three to 10 during the summer and fall seasons. Fortunately, herpangina usually lasts from three to five days.
7. Canker Sores
Canker sores—also known as aphthous ulcers— can be annoying, but they typically heal by themselves within 10-14 days. While the actual cause is unknown, typical triggers of canker sores include stress, hormones, immunity issues, and food hypersensitivities.
8. Oral Herpes
Oral herpes can cause outbreaks of fluid-filled blisters in the mouth or on the lips that last for a week to 10 days. When the blisters rupture, the scabs last for a few days without pain. This infection is caused by the herpes simplex virus. The herpes simplex virus is so common that up to four out of five adults in the U.S. carry it. The first oral herpes infection can cause flu-like symptoms, blisters, and ulcers on the gums and tongue. But there may be no noticeable symptoms at all. Once infected, the virus will be present in the body permanently. Still, the infection-causing sores can stay dormant with proper care. Oral herpes outbreaks are contagious, so you should wash your hands regularly and avoid touching the sores.
Oral herpes looks different in children. Children aged one to four who carry the simplex virus sometimes develop a condition called herpes gingivostomatitis. Symptoms include swollen gums and small blisters. The child may develop a fever, feel irritable, and tired. A few days after the small blisters appear on the gums, ulcers usually appear around the mouth. These blisters and ulcers heal themselves, just like sores in adults. The virus stays dormant most of the time, but stress, trauma, sunlight, and the common cold can cause symptoms to reappear.
These infections may seem scary, but many people get one or the other throughout their lives. Knowing the common signs and symptoms of mouth infections can help you recognize and seek treatment if necessary. Still a bit unsure? Consult your dentist!
Daily oral maintenance is crucial to keep a healthy set of gums and teeth. It’s important to pay attention to the entire mouth as a whole. Doing this will provide a person with healthy teeth and gums, as well as a great smile.
Knowing the best ways to maintain a healthy mouth can be difficult because there are so many things out there that could be beneficial to the teeth, gums and the mouth as a whole. However, there are a few tools seem to stand out among the different options, and today we will briefly go over them.
3 tools that every dentist recommends
While going to a dentist office for a visit would ideally be the best way to maintain optimal dental health, it isn’t possible to visit the dentist every day. Below are the top 3 tools that dentists advise to use when attempting to maintain good oral hygiene and gum health.
Toothbrushes
Toothbrushes may seem like an obvious tool to have for maintaining a good oral hygiene routine, but what the toothbrush does during the process is what matters the most. A toothbrush is one of the most important tools to utilize because it controls the main cleaning of the teeth. The bristles scrub the enamel clean of any plaque or leftover food particles, ensuring that there isn’t any buildup on the exterior of each tooth.
It’s important to know the proper way to brush your teeth. Applying too much pressure could cause damage to the enamel, leading to erosion or decay. However, applying too little force may not be sufficient enough when cleaning. Instead, it’s best to use a firm amount of pressure and move the brush in circular motions, ensuring that every side of the tooth is cleaned.
Floss
Again, while flossing may seem like an obvious tool to utilize, it’s actually about how the floss is used when attempting to maintain the best dental health. Flossing can be a tedious task for some people, while others may enjoy the intricateness of getting between every single tooth. Whether flossing is enjoyable for you or not, it’s a significant step in maintaining healthy teeth and gums.
Flossing allows for any food that’s been left behind to be dislodged, then removed from in between the teeth and gum lining. Individuals that don’t floss may experience discomfort in the gums or teeth when food is stuck. Dentists advise that flossing be done daily to ensure that the particles don’t begin to build up.
Mouthwash
Mouthwash isn’t as common within dental routines. Some people believe that skipping out on mouthwash is okay because they are caring for their teeth. However, it is actually very important for mouthwash to be incorporated in your oral health routine. The wash typically contains active agents that destroy bacteria and halt infections. It’s a crucial step in maintaining proper oral care because it doesn’t just keep the teeth and gums healthy — it also keeps the mouth as a whole healthy. If rinsed and used regularly, the antiseptics within the mouthwash can prevent bad breath, gum diseases and infections from occurring.
Dentists are constantly working on new ways to evolve the dental industry. They are always seeking out better ways to keep oral health in the most optimal place. Maintaining a healthy dental routine including brushing, flossing, and mouthwash and other oral hygiene steps should keep someone in good shape.
You brush and floss regularly and see your dentist twice a year for professional cleanings and checkups. Good for you! Diligent oral hygiene is the cornerstone of a healthy smile. But for all your positive effort, you may be doing other things in your daily life that are putting your pearly whites’ welfare at risk!
Here are 10 behaviors that can cause either immediate damage to your teeth (like chipping and cracking) or damage over time (like erosion of the tooth’s protective enamel coating or gum recession).
1.- Using the Wrong Toothbrush
Using a brush that’s too hard can cause your gums to recede and abrasion damage to tooth root surfaces. A soft-bristled, multi-tufted brush is ideal.
2.- Brushing Too Forcefully and Frequently
Even with the right brush, you can still damage teeth and irritate gyms by applying it too forcefully. A gentle whisking is all that’s needed to break up bacterial plaque buildup on tooth surfaces. Ask your dentist about the proper technique if you’re not sure.
Brushing too often can also be damaging over time. Twice a day — morning and night — is sufficient.
And, brushing immediately after eating can erode tooth enamel, which is weakened by acidity in foods and beverages. Wait at least 30 minutes.
3.- Nail Biting
This nervous habit exerts “parafunctional” (outside what’s normal) bite forces that can wear down teeth and cause small fractures and chips.
4.- Grinding and Clenching
Bruxing, the dental term for tooth grinding as well as jaw clenching, exerts excessive bite forces that can result in tooth wear, fractures or looseness, jaw pain and other symptoms. It often occurs while people sleep; a night guard can help protect against damage.
5.- Chewing Ice Cubes
Some blenders have special blades to crunch through ice cubes; imagine the effect of doing the same thing with your teeth! The force it takes your teeth (and jaws) to crunch through frozen water is far beyond what they’re designed to withstand.
6.- Using Your Teeth as Tools
Teeth are designed for eating, not for tearing tags off clothing, ripping open a bag of pretzels or unscrewing bottle tops. Misusing them is a recipe for fractures, chips and cracks.
7.- Playing Contact Sports Without a Mouth Guard
Mouth guards are an important piece of athletic equipment that can protect your teeth from blows to the face and head and reduce the risk of broken or lost teeth, cut lips and other damage.
8.- Dry Mouth
Saliva is important to oral health, as it neutralizes enamel-damaging acidity in your mouth and contains minerals that strengthen enamel. Dry mouth increases your risk of enamel erosion, cavities, and bad breath.
9.- Sugary Foods and Beverages
Sugary foods and drinks increase the risk of tooth decay. Sugar and carbohydrates (which break down into sugar) are favorite snacks for certain oral bacteria, which produce cavity-causing acid as they digest.
10.- Serial Coffee or Soda Drinking
Coffee and soda — regular and diet — are highly acidic. Sipping them throughout the day bathes your teeth in damaging acidity and doesn’t give saliva a chance to neutralize it.
Brushing your teeth every morning and night doesn't guarantee you're giving your mouth all the attention it needs. Even a regular oral hygiene routine could be leaving gaps if you engage in a few not-so-great habits during your time at the sink. By understanding proper brushing technique and ensuring you have the right tools in your cabinet, you can make sure you have all of your bases covered when pursuing a more thorough clean. Consider the following dental hygiene tips to help you take your care routine to the next level.
1.- Use Proper Brushing Technique
A quick wash of your bristles isn't enough to banish leftover food particles and polish your teeth. Instead, use a technique echoed by the South African Dental Association (SADA): Start with your brush at a 45-degree angle to your gums and use short back-and-forth strokes across the sides and tops of your teeth. Then, hold the brush vertically and use several shorter strokes to focus on the backs of the front anterior teeth where plaque builds up often.
2.- Brush Enough
Many people brush regularly, but simply don't brush enough for their teeth to stay clean. The SADA recommends brushing for at least two minutes, twice daily. Having trouble gauging your routine for this duration? Try listening to a short song, cue up a two-minute YouTube video or set a timer on your phone to give yourself the time you need to thoroughly clean your teeth.
3.- Pick the Right Brush
Always look for a brush whose head and bristles are small enough to reach into the crevices of your molars, where food debris can hide after you eat. Most adults require a small or medium-sized toothbrush for this purpose.
4.- Floss Properly
Like brushing, flossing must be done properly so that, when you reach between teeth, you actually get to the germs that are stuck there. Ideally, use a piece of floss up to 18 inches in length, allowing you to use a fresh area of floss every few teeth without reinserting the germs you just removed. Keep in mind that the floss should rub against the teeth in a motion that creates a forward or backward 'C' shape, wrapping the floss around each tooth.
5.- Use a Mouthwash
Effective mouthwash can go where toothbrushes and floss are unable to reach, helping to rid your mouth of the debris that irritate the gumline and cause gum problems. Add this mouthwash to your oral care regimen to get the most thorough clean possible, even when you're on the go.
6.- Clean Your Brush
You don't need special equipment or covers to keep the brush itself clean. In fact, SADA warns that covering your toothbrush can actually breed new germs and introduce them into your mouth. Instead, just rinse your brush after each use and allow it to air dry. You should also avoid sharing brushes with others, even your children.
7.- Change Your Brush
Bristles deteriorate with time and usage, so if you're using the same toothbrush beyond a few months, you may not be getting the best clean anymore. Rather, make a point of getting a new brush every three to four months, or at your semiannual dental check-up.
8.- Use a Tongue Scraper
Some toothbrushes now come with a ridged tooth-scraper on the back of the brush. After brushing, germs can remain on the tongue, so be sure to brush or scrape your tongue as part of your daily routine. Not only will it banish germs, but cleaning your tongue can also help freshen your breath.
9.- Stop Snacking
Hungry for a midnight snack? Brushing well may clear your teeth of germs and food particles, but if you eat a snack afterward, you'll need to brush again before bed. Having a snack before sleep (without brushing) can allow food particles and sugar to remain on your teeth for too long, providing fuel for germs that feed on it.
Oral hygiene should be part of any overall health routine. By following these dental hygiene tips, you can choose the best products, improve your technique and ensure you're doing everything in your power to keep your mouth cavity-free.
Teeth are one the most sensitive parts of the human body that get affected by changing food habits, unhygienic practices, and much more. Looking after your oral health is one of the primary steps to achieve excellent overall health.
A comprehensive Oral Health Tracker and study conducted by a leading thinktank in Australia in 2018 revealed that almost 90 precent of adults in the country struggle with some form of tooth decay. Smoking habits and excessive alcohol consumption are found to be major reasons for poor oral health.
Since poor oral health can lead to severe health issues such as stroke, heart issues, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, and more, you should know what can contribute to your oral health.
It is a known fact that brushing and flossing regularly can ensure good oral health. However, do you think that brushing and flossing alone can guarantee you good dental health? Do you know how to brush and floss properly for good oral health? You can ensure excellent oral health by following a ten-step strategy.
1. Brush Twice A Day
Brushing twice a day is the primary step towards good oral health. While some dentists recommend that you brush after every meal, many people find this impractical to follow.
You should thoroughly brush your mouth in mornings and evenings. Do you know almost 51 percent of Australian adults brush their teeth two times a day? Still, over 90 percent of Australian adults have dental health issues.
One of the primary reasons for this drastic difference is improper brushing. When you brush, always choose a toothbrush with a small head and soft nylon bristles to avoid any damages to your gums. Small heads can cover your entire mouth and ensure better cleaning.
Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride and place your brush at a 45-degree angle against your teeth. You have to brush in back and forth, up and down short strokes to clean your teeth and gums. Always try to brush in smaller sections without pressing too hard on teeth or gums.
You can keep your brush tilted vertically to clean inner surfaces of your teeth. You should also clean your tongue and cheeks in the brushing process. It removes bacteria and microbes from those areas. Finally, you should rinse your mouth thoroughly.
You should brush sufficiently to remove bacteria and food residues from your teeth for at least 2-3 minutes. It is recommended that you try to replace your toothbrush in every 3-4 months to ensure no frayed bristles.
People who have recovered from viral infections and flu are recommended to replace their toothbrush to avoid the re-insertion of microbes.
2. Floss Once A Day
Flossing once a day is another important step to achieve excellent oral health. While brushing removes the bacteria present on the surface of your teeth, it is not sufficient to remove the bacteria from the areas between teeth.
Take an 18-inch floss ribbon and wrap it around your fingers of both hands, leaving only a few inches for flossing. Then start flossing the area around each tooth using up-and-down and back-and-forth movements using your index fingers and thumbs.
While flossing, you should also ensure that your gums are being cleaned as well. While cleaning each area, you have to pay attention to use the newer sections of floss. This can avoid reinsertion of bacteria and microbes into different areas of teeth.
3. Rinse Your Mouth After Every Meal
Rinse your mouth with fresh water after every meal. It can remove the food residues stuck in your mouth. Your food can cause dental decay due to the acidic level of it, and water can neutralise the acidic condition effectively.
If you think that you ate a lot of acidic or sweet food, you can rinse your mouth with mouthwashes that contain chlorine dioxide or Listerine. People who feel that their brushing and flossing are not ideal can also use mouthwashes to improve their oral health. Mouthwashes reduce the acidity in the mouth, clean deeper areas of teeth and gums, and ensure remineralisation for teeth.
4. Proper Diet
It is common knowledge that teeth are made from calcium and phosphorous. You should also note that Vitamin C is highly essential for the proper growth of gums. The adequate intake of phosphorous and calcium can remineralise your teeth. You can ensure the supply of calcium by consuming low-fat milk, cheese, canned salmon, yogurt, dark green leafy vegetables, almonds, and beans and lentils.
Consumption of fish, eggs, lean meat, beans, dairy, and nuts can supply you the sufficient phosphorous. For Vitamin C, you can eat citrus fruits, potatoes, tomatoes, broccoli, spinach, and much more. To ensure proper oral health, you should have a balanced diet with all these food items.
5. Drink More Water
Drinking more water is a great option to ensure good overall health, and it can enhance your oral health as well. Drinking fluoridated water can help you to prevent cavities as fluoride is known as “nature’s cavity fighter.” According to a government data published in 2012, more than 70 percent of the population of the Northern Territory receives artificially fluoridated drinking water. Therefore, drinking your tap water can help you to improve your dental health.
Water also removes food residue and acidity from the food and keeps your mouth clean. Drinking the right quantity of water also helps you to keep dry mouth at bay. This will help to ensure that you have a sufficient production of saliva to get rid of dry mouth, as saliva has an important role in maintaining your oral health and fighting tooth decay.
6. Say No To These Foods
While you need to consume a balanced diet for your teeth, you should also say no or reduce the consumption of specific food products. Firstly, you should avoid carbonated drinks, including sodas. These drinks come with excess sugar and acids that can damage your teeth.
Alcohol is also a bad choice for your teeth as it can dry your mouth by reducing the production of saliva. Sour candies and food products that can stick to your teeth and gums can also lead to dental decay. You can also limit the consumption of sugary food products and drinks, including many energy and sports drinks, to protect your teeth from decay.
7. Say Goodbye To Tobacco
If you chew tobacco products or smoke, it is important to say goodbye to it. Chewing tobacco and smoking can cause stains on your teeth. Tobacco can create pockets in your teeth and gums for gum disease bacteria to grow. Apart from increasing the risks of gum disease, tobacco can make your dental treatments less effective.
Tobacco products can also compromise your immune system and lead to many dental and overall health issues. It also leads to the increased deposit of plaque on your teeth. Regular use of tobacco can lead to oral cancer as well.
8. No Excess Teeth Bleaching
Teeth whitening is an excellent option to bring back the original colour of teeth for people who have discoloured or stained teeth. However, some people tend to do bleach their teeth frequently, and that can become detrimental in the long run.
Excessive use of teeth whitening chemicals can lead to the erosion of the enamel. It can also increase the sensitivity of the tooth and cause gum irritation. Do you know that excessive use of peroxide-based whitening products can leave you with translucent teeth, more so than white ones? It can make your teeth discoloured, especially at the edges.
9. Regular Dental Check-Ups
Regular dental check-ups are another great way to ensure good oral health. You should have a dental appointment at least once in every six months to keep your teeth and gums healthy. During these appointments, your dentist will examine your teeth and provide you with professional teeth cleaning.
The dentist will examine your teeth, gums, other parts of your mouth, face, head, and neck for any swelling, redness, dental issues, and more. The dentist will then provide you with the necessary dental treatments. Finally, they clean your teeth and remove any tartar present on the surfaces of your teeth. Regular dental check-ups can help you to trace the early signals of dental and other health issues, including oral cancer, and ensure timely treatment.
10. Timely Dental Care
Apart from regular dental appointments, you should also provide timely care for your dental issues. Whenever you notice any tooth decay or gum issue, you should immediately seek the assistance of a dentist. Most dental issues can be easily addressed or cured if you take timely dental aid.
Similarly, if you experience any accidents that lead to fractures, broken teeth, or gum injuries, you should visit a dentist immediately. Early treatment can help you to save your teeth and ensure excellent oral health.
Conclusion
Maintaining your oral health is crucial. Good oral health helps you to interact with people more confidently and enjoy your favourite food items. Additionally, it stops you from experiencing various dental issues that can even affect your overall health.
You can achieve excellent oral health by following good hygienic practices, balanced diet, and regular dental visits.
Food, beverages, some medications, and age can cause teeth discoloration over time. Teeth can become yellow or gray through surface stains or deep stains. Learn more about the causes of yellow teeth and easy things to help prevent and remove teeth stains.
Why Are My Teeth Yellow When I Brush Them Every Day?
Even if you keep a solid oral care routine, your teeth may become stained over time. Brushing your teeth and using an antiseptic mouthwash keeps your mouth clean and healthy. Still, some lifestyle factors and genetic factors can impact the shade of your teeth. For example, the following factors can make your teeth yellow or gray:
Acidic drinks such as coffee, tea, soda, and wine
Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products
Thin tooth enamel that shows the pale brown layer underneath called dentin.
Dry mouth
Some medications like antibiotics and supplements
Genetics
Aging
How to Get Rid of Yellow Teeth
Fortunately, there are things you can do to brighten your teeth. A good oral hygiene routine, avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, and teeth whitening products can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile.
1. Practice Good Oral Hygiene
Practicing good oral hygiene is essential for keeping your teeth white. Properly brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes each time, cleaning between your teeth with floss or flossing alternatives, and using an antiseptic or whitening mouthwash is good practice for keeping your mouth healthy. Also, keeping your dental checkups and following care instructions from your dental hygienist can help prevent further stains and other dental issues.
2. Avoid Stain-Causing Foods
Good oral hygiene is essential, but you can also avoid new stains or deepening stains by avoiding foods and drinks with acids and colors known to stain teeth. Intensely pigmented foods like red wine, berries, and coffee should be a treat, but not something you consume throughout the day. You can remove particles from these foods and beverages by brushing your teeth shortly after consuming them.
3. Teeth Whitening Treatments and Products
If you want to know how to whiten yellow teeth, the most effective option is an in-office whitening treatment with your dentist. In-office whitening treatments have become very popular because you can see results in a single visit or a few visits. The effects last longer than any product you find on the shelves.
Your dentist may recommend an at-home whitening kit that includes a custom tray and whitening gel. The instructions may vary, but patients often wear one of these trays for a set time in the evenings over one or two weeks. Ensure you follow your dentist's aftercare instructions to maintain whitening results!
Whitening treatments with your dentist are typically more expensive than whitening products you can buy at the store. Still, there are several options you can try. Whitening strips, whitening mouthwashes, whitening toothpaste, and whitening pens have become widely available over-the-counter. These products have a lower concentration of the whitening compounds used by the dentist, so they tend not to be as effective. Still, they may achieve some whitening of the teeth.
4. Enamel Protection
Your smile may not be as bright as you want because of weak enamel. According to the American Dental Association (ADA), tooth enamel is a hard substance. It cannot repair itself once it breaks down. Once oral disease affects the enamel, you can't restore it, and weak enamel can be more susceptible to decay and cavities. That's where enamel protection comes in handy. Fluoride found in most toothpaste can help strengthen tooth enamel against the wear and tear associated with acidic foods and beverages, meaning fewer stains on weak enamel.
5. Eat Calcium-Rich Foods
According to the ADA, eating foods high in calcium helps strengthen enamel. Healthy enamel means that the layer of dentin underneath doesn't show, causing your teeth to appear whiter in color. Dairy products and non-dairy calcium-rich foods provide your teeth with the minerals they need to keep enamel healthy.
When oral hygiene itself doesn't improve your teeth's appearance, it might be time to consider these other options. Talk to your dental professional about their recommendations for removing surface stains and maintaining a bright smile.
