Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations
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Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

Dental implants can make a smile look fabulous – I know I have them. However, if you are just thinking about getting them, you may have a lot of questions. You may be wondering how smoking affects implants, whether or not wine will stain them, if they can be whitened or other concerns. I also know from experience that it can be intimidating to ask some of these questions to your dentist. In my dental implant blog, I am going to answer the questions that can be hard to ask. I hope you find the info you need in this blog and that it guides you to the right decision about dental implants. Thanks for reading!

Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

Three Important Guidelines for Managing Teeth Discolouration Problems

Isobel Berry

The discolouration of teeth can compromise one's facial appearance. As a result, an individual with stained teeth might experience increased discomfort when smiling or speaking. Over time, this issue can give rise to low self-esteem, work problems and even poor relationships. Therefore, if you have noticed a change in your teeth' colour, you should consult your dentist for an examination. In most cases, the decline in dental appearance is a simple superficial problem. However, in some situations, it could indicate an underlying condition. Here are some crucial tips to remember for the effective management of teeth discolouration.

Understand the Cause

You should evaluate the cause of the dental discolouration before choosing the treatment approach for restoration. As mentioned, the most common cause of discoloured teeth is superficial staining. In simple terms, the teeth can change colour due to the accumulation of tinting substances. For instance, if you consume a lot of foods and drinks with a dyeing effect like coffee, soft drinks, certain fruits and cigarettes, the colour of your teeth will change. Moreover, ineffective brushing practices can cause a gradual decline in dental appearance. If your teeth are not simply stained, you will need to discuss dental conditions related to discolouration. The use of certain medications increases the risk of discolouration, especially among younger children. For example, excessive exposure to fluoride or antibiotics like tetracycline can cause teeth to grow with significant intrinsic staining. Some diseases are also associated with poor enamel and dentin development, increasing the risk of yellowing. Other factors include ageing, past dental treatments, genetics and even trauma.

Check on Treatment Options

Identifying the cause of teeth discolouration determines the best technique for restoring a beautiful smile. Teeth whitening is the most obvious approach for resolving superficial staining. You can choose over-the-counter products for home use. However, it is advisable to choose in-office whitening in your dentist's clinic. This solution is more effective, and you will avoid accidental harm to your teeth. If the stains on your teeth are due to past diseases or medication, simple whitening will be ineffective. In this case, inquire about teeth bonding or veneer installation.

Consider Your Oral Care

Finally, you must address your oral care habits after the treatment for teeth discolouration. If you are not diligent in cleaning your teeth, the problem will recur, necessitating further dental procedures. Follow the guidelines provided for brushing and flossing after the treatment. Also, avoid or cut back on eating and drinking potentially staining foods and beverages. The precaution will keep your teeth whiter for longer. 

For more information on general dentistry, contact a professional near you.


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