Dental professionals have offered advice on how to prevent those unwanted yellow stains on your teeth.
With the rise of social media influencers and shows like Love Island, it can sometimes feel like our naturally imperfect teeth just don’t measure up.
It’s hard not to feel self-conscious when we’re constantly bombarded with images of perfectly straight, dazzling white teeth (often veneers) everywhere.
The great news is that you don’t need to go to the extreme of traveling to Turkey for a new set of veneers to boost your confidence. There are plenty of simple ways to maintain a bright smile from the comfort of your own home.
A recent post from Dr. Shaadi Manouchehri, who is known as @dr.shaadi.manouchehri on social media, shared some surprising news: habits like brushing your teeth right after breakfast or your morning coffee can actually damage your enamel, leading to a yellowish tinge on your teeth from tea stains.
If you’ve been guilty of skipping your nightly brush or brushing after consuming acidic drinks, don’t worry! There are several ways to prevent or reverse tooth discoloration.
Specialized Toothpastes
Not all products that claim to give you a movie-star smile in just a few days will live up to the hype, but many can certainly help improve the appearance of your teeth.
It’s worth considering a toothpaste that includes ingredients like baking soda and hydrogen peroxide. These bleaching agents can aid in reducing the appearance of stained or discolored teeth.
However, be cautious not to overuse these products, as excessive application can harm your teeth. The American Dental Association recommends a hydrogen peroxide concentration of no more than 3.6%, while Colgate advises that a concentration between 3% and 6% is safe for use.
Whitening strips and trays have gained popularity as a quick solution in recent years, but it’s crucial not to overuse them.
Toothpaste containing charcoal can also be effective, but like whitening strips, overuse can lead to enamel damage.
Foods to avoid
Coffee and milky tea are obvious culprits when it comes to staining your teeth. However, they’re not the only foods and drinks that can contribute to a yellowish hue on your teeth.
Fizzy drinks, citrus-based beverages, and red wine can also lead to staining because of their sugar content and/or acidity, which can be abrasive on your teeth.
Foods like curry, tomato-based sauces, and berries may contribute to enamel erosion.
We’re not advising you to survive solely on water and bland vegetables—that would be quite dull—but the important thing to keep in mind with any food is moderation.
Avoid overindulging in sugary foods, prioritize good oral hygiene, and occasionally use whitening toothpaste or strips with hydrogen peroxide, and your teeth should stay in good shape.
