When the best orthodontists in Dubai were asked what people would most like to improve about their smile, the most common response was whiter teeth.
Over time, your teeth can go from white to not-so-bright for a number of reasons:
Food and Drink
Coffee, tea and red wine are some major staining culprits. They have intense color pigments called chromogens that attach to the white, outer part of your tooth.
Tobacco
Two chemicals found in tobacco create stubborn stains: Tar and nicotine. Tar is naturally dark. Nicotine is colorless until it’s mixed with oxygen. Then, it turns into a yellowish, surface-staining substance.
Age
Below the hard, white outer shell of your teeth (enamel) is a softer area called dentin. Over time, the outer enamel layer gets thinner with brushing and more of the yellowish dentin shows through.
Trauma
If you’ve been hit in the mouth, your tooth may change color because it reacts to an injury by laying down more dentin, which is a darker layer under the enamel.
Medications
Tooth darkening can be a side effect of certain antihistamines, antipsychotics and high blood pressure medications. Young children who are exposed to antibiotics when their teeth are forming (either in the womb or as a baby) may have discoloration of their adult teeth later in life. Chemotherapy and head and neck radiation can also darken teeth.
Oral hygiene tips
Good oral hygiene helps to prevent a range of dental problems such as tooth decay, gum disease and even dental erosion. While brushing your teeth morning and night is a great start, to be really effective a little more commitment is required. Here are some easy oral hygiene tips that will help keep your pearly whites in top condition.
Correct brushing technique
As we all know, brushing your teeth at least twice a day is essential – after breakfast in the morning and before going to bed at night. Spend at least 2 minutes brushing, ensuring that all areas are cleaned, gently move the toothbrush in a circular motion, which will clean away as much plaque from the gums as possible.
Cleaning between teeth
Removing plaque between your teeth requires regular flossing at least once a day after brushing.
Nowadays, dental tape has become a popular option, especially for beginners, as it’s an easier way to get between the teeth.
Follow the right diet
Try to reduce or eliminate the amount of sugary food and fizzy drinks you eat and drink. Acidic foods and drinks can also cause tooth erosion which causes tooth sensitivity, discolouration and cracks over time.
More tips for healthy teeth
After every meal, rinse out your mouth with antiseptic mouthwash to help kill germs, or at least water to wash away food debris. Don’t be tempted to crack nuts, rip open a plastic package or even remove a bottle top with your teeth – there’s a risk of chipping or breaking.
Visit your dentist for a check-up regularly!