Preventive Measures for Yellowing of the Teeth
Yellowing of teeth is a very common problem that most of you must either have experienced or seen. Staining or yellowing hampers the perfect spotless smile and makes you uncomfortable in public. The good news is that proper dental care and simple tips can help you maintain the whiteness for a longer period. Clean and white teeth enhance your facial appearance and instill a lot of confidence in you.
Dental Structure
Before learning about the causes and preventive measures for yellowing of the teeth, you must have a fair idea about the basic structure of a tooth. The outer layer of the tooth is called enamel. This provides protection by forming an external covering. This layer is translucent and the tint is mainly provided by an underlying layer called the dentin. Although the enamel is highly durable and helps in chewing and biting, it gets extra support from the dentin. The inner layers constitute the pulp cavity and root canal which comprise of tissues, blood vessels and nerves. The enamel and the dentin together are responsible for the white color of the teeth.
Causes of yellowing
There are various factors that affect teeth coloration. Deep-rooted causes such as hereditary factors, sicknesses and medications cause discoloration. An increased intake of fluoride also dims the whiteness of your teeth. At times, there could be bleeding within the pulp cavity due to a sudden shock and this blooding might leave stains. For such intrinsic yellowing or discoloration, you need to consult a dentist.
Apart from these causes, yellowing is caused due to various external factors. Tobacco chewing and smoking cause maximum discoloration. Beverages like tea and coffee are known for staining and quickening the yellowing process. Drinks containing sodas also lead to discoloration. Certain food items like blueberries, wine, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar and food items containing edible artificial colors trigger yellowness in teeth. Food items high in iron can also affect your teeth color. Common blood pressure medicines and antipsychotics are known to cause discoloration.
Prevention
The best and most important step that you need to follow is a proper dental hygiene. Foods that encourage discoloration need not be avoided completely. However, make sure that you brush your teeth after having such foods and beverages. If you are a smoker, you have to make a choice – either tobacco or pearly white teeth. You cannot have both, although specially formulated toothpastes help up to a certain extent. Drink enough water after every meal as it helps in clearing away bacteria.
Flossing your mouth and gargling with a mouthwash remove the germs and food particles from every possible corner. Baking soda is known for its cleansing properties and can be used while brushing to get back the whiteness of your teeth. Appropriate water and hydrogen peroxide solution also helps in removing stains. You should make it a point to visit your dentist every 6 months for a dental cleaning. This will help your teeth to regain the natural whiteness.
Small changes in your food habits and proper oral care can prevent yellowing of the teeth. So, you not only retain the brightness of your teeth but also ensure healthy dental conditions.
