While it’s an extremely common problem, experienced by the vast majority of people, many people feel self-conscious about yellowing or staining of their teeth. In this article, we’ve put together a guide to the causes of dental discolouration and the best products for teeth whitening at home with which you can overcome it.
What causes tooth discolouration?
The main causes of dental discolouration and staining are all lifestyle factors that are difficult to avoid. Dark coloured foods including fizzy drinks, coffee, tea and many fruits and fruit juices are among the worst offenders for causing yellowing, while smoking is by far the biggest culprit for brown staining. Acidic foods and drinks can reduce the thickness of enamel through erosion. This process not only causes pain and increased tooth sensitivity over time, but speeds up the process of staining by allowing the chemicals that cause discolouration to bind to the tooth more easily.
How can you stop tooth discolouration?
The easiest method for stopping tooth discolouration is prevention. Avoiding the foods and lifestyle choices responsible for staining and erosion where possible will have a huge impact on keeping your teeth looking their best. Using a straw when drinking fizzy or dark-coloured drinks, rinsing your mouth with water after eating acidic foods, and brushing your teeth shortly after meals will help in this.
If you’re looking to rapidly reduce the discolouration, products for teeth whitening at home may be your best option.