Do you find yourself searching for teeth whitening in Raleigh, NC, options online? If yes, you are not alone. Millions of Americans are dissatisfied with their smiles because their teeth are severely discolored and stained.
Admit it. Editing your photos and making sure your teeth look perfect for your social media profile can be exhausting. Besides, even if people praise you for having a bright smile, you know deep down that those photos are edited. But, in real life, that’s not what people will see when you open your mouth.
The good news is that tooth discoloration can be treated. In fact, it can be prevented. So why are your teeth discolored, and how can you protect your smile from staining further?
Tooth Stains 101
What Are the Different Types of Staining?
There are three different types of tooth discoloration – intrinsic, extrinsic, and age-related stains.
Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains can be found in your dentin, the layer underneath the enamel. Unfortunately, over-the-counter whitening products will not work on intrinsic stains. Examples of intrinsic stains are too much fluoride, tooth injury, tooth trauma, certain medications, genetics, and tooth decay.
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic stains affect the outermost layer of your teeth called the enamel. Some of the causes of extrinsic stains are tobacco use and dark-colored food and drinks like berries, tea, and coffee.
Age-Related Factors
When you age, your enamel will start to wear down, exposing the yellowish layer beneath it known as the dentin.
What Causes Your Teeth to Stain?
The major contributing factors leading to tooth discoloration are the food and drinks you consume, tooth injuries, and the normal aging process.
Food, Drinks, and Smoking Tobacco
Did you know that certain food and drinks can stain your teeth? Examples of food and beverages that discolor your teeth are tea, coffee, red wine, tomato sauces, red sauces, colas, and chocolate. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also stain your teeth.
Medications, Injuries, and Age
If the cause of the staining is a tooth injury, the rest of your teeth won’t get affected. Only the damaged tooth will change in color. However, as you get older, your teeth will start to brittle, making them susceptible to staining. Certain antibiotics can also affect the color of your teeth. According to studies, it was found that children who took tetracycline antibiotics experienced permanent tooth discoloration.
What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?
Is there a way for you to get rid of tooth stains? The answer is yes. There are different methods of whitening your teeth. The following are some of the ways you can brighten up your smile:
Oral Care Routine
You can remove stains from your teeth by simply brushing and flossing every day. This prevents yellowish plaque from forming on the surface of your teeth.
In-Office Teeth Whitening Treatment
During an in-office teeth whitening procedure, your cosmetic dentist will use a specified concentration of hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth. The procedure typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. Getting your teeth professionally whitened is the best choice because it’s safe, efficient, and effective. Many people experiment with their teeth by purchasing DIY teeth whitening kits. Unfortunately, these kits are unsafe and may cause permanent damage to your teeth. There are also no guarantees that they work.
At-Home Treatments
You can ask your dentist for custom trays so that you can whiten your teeth at home. The difference is that you’ll be the one doing it. Your dentist will give you specific step-by-step instructions on applying the gel and the trays on your teeth and how long they’ll need to stay there. It takes several weeks for you to see the results.
Dental Visits
Did you know that routine teeth cleanings can help minimize stains and discoloration? By visiting your dentist at least twice a year to have your teeth professionally cleaned, you’re doing your smile a favor.
Many Americans have tried over-the-counter teeth whitening products, and most if not all of them were disappointed with the results. Aside from dealing with the frustration of not achieving the smile you expected, there’s also a high chance that you could damage your teeth and gums. A lot of these products can cause gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.
Can You Prevent Teeth Discoloration?
The good news is that you can prevent teeth yellowing by doing the following:
- Limit your consumption of pigmented food and drinks. If you consume them, make sure you brush and floss your teeth after. However, if you can’t access your toothbrush and floss when you’re done, you may swish your mouth with water to prevent staining.
- Modify your lifestyle. If you smoke or if you’re hooked on sodas, now is the best time to quit them because they are bad for your teeth and your health.
Do You Have More Questions About Teeth Whitening in Raleigh, NC?
Don’t be bothered by yellow teeth. We can brighten them for you at an affordable cost. At Tyron Family Dentistry, we care about your smile and oral health. That’s why we offer customizable and budget-friendly cosmetic dental services to give you a comfortable and efficient experience. Call us today for an appointment.
