Make Informed Decisions about Teeth Whitening and Your Oral Health

Colorful cascades can be great when it comes to floral bouquets, but it can be very concerning when it comes to our smiles.  Teeth should carry an even hue, and when one tooth stands out it can bring a lot of negative attention.  An unevenly colored smile can really make someone’s social confidence suffer, so it is important to keep your teeth uniform in brightness.  Here is a little insight into some common antagonists that stain teeth:

Common Causes of Teeth Discoloration

• Tobacco is a notorious strainer of teeth.  Depending on where the cigarette is when it is inhaled or where chewing tobacco is placed will greatly contribute to a non-uniform coloration.  
• Dark Foods and Beverages may cause discoloration.  Coffee, tea, wines, liquor, and colas are heavy strainers, but dark juicy berries stain as well.  Don’t think you are safe with white wine or clear liquors either- the reason these stain just as bad is because alcohol decreases saliva production so the mouth can’t properly clean the staining components naturally.
• Trauma or Impact may be the cause for discoloration.  As any toothache will remind you, your tooth is a living network of tissues and blood vessels under the enamel.  With the tooth being alive at impact the internal bleeding will cause discoloration just as your skin will bruise when it is struck by an object.  The impact causes blood vessels to break and internally bruise the tooth.  Unlike veins, the tooth does not have a way to remove the blood from the ruptured vessels.  This will darken the tooth naturally over time and may take as long as five years to surface and become noticeable.
• Over Fluoridation may be the culprit.  Fluoride works best in moderation; however, with so many sources of fluoride out there such as toothpaste, mouth rinses, tap and bottled water, over fluoridation can occur resulting in darkened teeth with a swirling color pattern. 
• Poor Hygiene such as missed brushings and flossing will leave food and bacteria sitting upon your teeth, barraging the enamel and weakening the outer enamel.  This allows dark liquids and food stations to penetrate the tooth.

Certain factors that discolor may be entirely beyond your control like aging, genetics, or even prescription medications.  No matter the reasoning, our office is fully prepared with treatment options right for you!

Before you try over-the-counter tooth whitening remedies to correct your dental dilemma, understand the risks involved. 

Popular drug store whiteners generally use a peroxide solution to whiten, and if it contacts any sensitive areas that you weren't aware of or a hidden cavity it can cause a great deal of pain.  That is why a dentist’s evaluation should precede any whitening treatment to ensure painless and effective results.  Some cases with one or two noticeably discolored teeth may require Veneers, or a porcelain crown to match the whiteness of the rest of your smile.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your dentist about your oral health concerns. WernickFamily Dentistry prides itself on patient care and listening to your concerns. Your dentist will look at the problem and consider the health of the whole mouth for the most informed decision making process. Contact the office today and schedule a consultation with your family dentist, your best smile is waiting for you on the other end.