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You put a lot of effort into your dental health and the last thing you want is to have a dull smile; you want your teeth to shine! Our dentist near Wicker Park has outlined some tips below on how to prevent stains and keep your teeth healthy and bright.
Use a whitening toothpaste and mouthwash twice a day to stop staining before it starts. Be sure to use a whitening toothpaste that also contains fluoride, as fluoride protects the teeth, reduces enamel loss and prevents tooth decay. Keep up on flossing twice daily to remove plaque, bacteria, and ensure that your gums are healthy.
Acidic foods and drinks contribute to the weakening and erosion of enamel. As enamel erodes, the underlying dentin is exposed, making the teeth appear more yellow and more prone to stains. Drinks such as soda, coffee, tea, and wine are acidic and contain compounds that stain the teeth, so it is best to avoid them. If you do consume acidic foods or beverages, be sure to rinse your mouth with water immediately after.
Smoking is a bad habit that can prevent you from attaining the bright smile you want. Smoking tobacco not only causes damage to the gums and surrounding tissues in your mouth, but it also leaves brown stains on your teeth that are hard to remove.
Other habits to kick are teeth grinding and clenching, as the pressure will wear down enamel over time. Since grinding sometimes occurs only during sleep and you may be unaware of it, you should get checked by a dentist and have a nightguard made to protect your teeth if there is evidence of grinding.
Besides these everyday tips for a bright smile, regular dental cleanings will remove stains and protect enamel health. Contact Dente Complete Dentistry to schedule a cleaning or inquire about our teeth whitening procedures today.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to dentistry, feel free to contact Dente Complete Dentistry, with a convenient dental office near Wicker Park, by calling 773.295.0562 or by clicking here.
