Teeth Whiteners: Your Weapon Against Stubborn Stains
Teeth whiteners and teeth whitening treatments are no longer futuristic dental possibilities: they are actually readily available anytime, anywhere in the world today. The amazing developments brought about by modern science and technology has made almost everything possible for mankind.
We now have the option to re-colour our teeth into alpine white perfection. Whitening strips, whitening gels, whitening kits and laser procedures are just some of the many teeth whitener techniques. The degree by which a treatment is administered should be based on the condition of your teeth and the shade you want to achieve.
But first let us try to understand what causes our teeth to discolour. Where do stubborn stains even come from? Shouldn’t they just be washed away as we brush our teeth, floss, and gargle? Unfortunately not! Here are some of the causes for teeth stains:
1. Coffee and cigarettes. Needless to say, caffeine and nicotine play a big role in staining the teeth. Teeth whiteners largely target the coffee addicts and the cigarette-smoking population because they are the most prone to teeth discolouration and are likely to consider a teeth whitening treatment eventually.
2. Medicines. Recent studies have shown that over the counter medications and certain antibiotics and antihistamines cause teeth to become dull or have a yellowish tint. The antibiotic Tetracycline, used to treat several bacterial infections, can give a yellow stain on the teeth of young children while Minocycline can render a bluish gray tint on adults’ teeth.
3. Excessive fluoride use. While fluoride is in itself a form of teeth whitener, too much of it can cause your teeth to turn chalky. Usually, young children suffer from fluoride overdose because they use too much toothpaste when brushing. Adults may get the fluoride from drinking water with a fluoride concentration.
4. Genetics. Some people are just born with extra white teeth while others don’t. Teeth whiteners that work on the external layer of enamel typically do not work effectively on genetically dull-coloured teeth. Thicker enamels are also in the genes – thank your lucky stars if your parents endowed you with some.
5. Age. Age is also a big factor in teeth discoloration. As people grow old, the teeth enamels start to thin out and become duller and browner in colour. This is one of the most visible signs of aging which cannot be prevented but can be treated with teeth whiteners.
6. Damage to teeth caused by restoration or accidents. The trauma caused by root canals can surprisingly cause teeth discolorations. Further, a bad fall that hurt the mouth area and the teeth can also be responsible for teeth staining.
7. Dark coloured beverages and food. Coffee, tea, soda, red wine, berries and cherries are known to stain teeth. Another beverage that has been found to discolour teeth is beer because it contains acidic properties. Professionals reveal that any beverage or food that stains your carpet will stain your teeth.
8. Improper dental hygiene. Wrong brushing techniques and failure to floss regularly contributes to teeth staining because it means that bacteria and build-up are not routinely removed from your teeth. Residues of enamel-staining food need to be washed off immediately.
Teeth whiteners can be used to remove stubborn stains. If you have the right product and the right dentist to seek counsel and advise from, then you are well on your way to having white teeth! Remember to discuss your options with your trusted professional before embarking on a teeth whitening journey.
