Avoid these 8 habits that lead to teeth discoloration – keep your teeth white for longer

Many things can lead to teeth discoloration. However, eight habits, in particular, are the most common offenders. If you want to keep your teeth looking their best, it’s essential to be aware of these habits and avoid them where possible. Teeth discoloration is a cause of worry for many people and makes them hide their smiles.

To keep your teeth clean and white, you should maintain a proper dental hygiene routine. Apart from that, you can try cutting these eight habits from your everyday life:

Drinking Coffee and Tea

• Both coffee and tea are notorious for staining teeth. If you can’t give them up completely, try limiting your intake and brushing your teeth immediately afterward. Coffee and tea contain tannins, which can attach to your teeth and cause discoloration, and lead to long-term staining.

Smoking Cigarettes

• Smoking is one of the worst things you can do for your teeth. Not only does it lead to discoloration, but it also increases your risk of gum disease and other oral health problems. Cigarettes contain nicotine, which can stain and form deposits on your teeth. If you smoke, it’s important to quit and brush your teeth regularly to remove the stains.

Eating Foods That Stain

• Some specific foods and drinks are more likely to cause staining than others. These include dark-colored fruits and vegetables, red wine, soy sauce, and balsamic vinegar. If you enjoy these foods, be sure to brush your teeth afterward to help prevent staining, or try to eat them in moderation.

Not Brushing and Flossing Regularly

• If you don’t brush and floss your teeth on a regular basis, plaque and bacteria can build up, causing your teeth to discolor. Plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth and contains bacteria that can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Be sure to brush twice a day and floss at least once to remove plaque and keep your teeth healthy.

Using Teeth Whitening Products Frequently

• Teeth whitening products can be effective in helping to achieve a brighter smile. However, using them too much can lead to tooth sensitivity and enamel erosion. If you’re using teeth whitening products, follow the instructions carefully and only use them as directed; otherwise, you could do more harm than good and end up with teeth discoloration.

Drinking Water With High Levels of Fluoride

• While fluoride is beneficial for oral health, drinking water with high fluoride levels can lead to teeth discoloration. If your water supply has high fluoride levels, try using a filtered water pitcher to avoid this problem. You can also ask your dentist to prescribe a fluoride toothpaste that is less likely to cause discoloration or get some treatment done.

Taking Certain Medications

• Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause teeth discoloration. If you’re taking medication that has this side effect, be sure to talk to your dentist about ways to prevent it. Moreover, certain medical conditions, such as jaundice, can also lead to teeth discoloration, which can be corrected with teeth whitening treatments.

Not Maintain Good Hygiene With Braces

• Braces can often lead to teeth discoloration, especially in the early stages of treatment. This is because braces can cause plaque and bacteria to build upon the teeth. Be sure to brush your teeth after every meal and snack and see your dentist for regular cleanings while wearing braces.

At Icon Dental Center, we provide you and your children with the best dental healthcare in Everett and Seattle. We offer the best routine exam and cleaning services that help you maintain good dental hygiene. For a consultation or a booking, call us at 206-225-2882 for Seattle and 425-337-2400 for Everett.