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Prevent Dental Stains
Without Chemicals
By Charles Kassotis
Do you wish your teeth were
whiter? Some people have off-white teeth naturally, probably
through their genetic inheritance. Others get stained teeth over
time for a variety of reasons. If you would like to brighten
your smile but don’t want to put the time or money into
commercially whitening them, here are a few suggestions for
doing it on your own.
1. Limit your consumption of
tea, which contains tannic acid. This substance can darken teeth
gradually over time, as evidenced by the stains left in teacups
used for serving this beverage. You also may want to cut back on
cola products, which has a similar but lesser effect. Any foods
with deep colors, like blueberries, can leave stains on your
tooth enamel. So be sure to brush your teeth after eating foods
like these.
2. Rinse your mouth after
eating. For best results, try to rinse with water even after
snacks, including pop or candy bars. This will prevent foods
from sticking to or staying with your teeth, where they can
adhere to the enamel and cause stains to appear gradually. At
work, use the drinking fountain or bathroom sink for a quick
rinse. The quicker you rinse, the better results you will have.
Some people even carry small bottles of mouthwash for a quick
gargle after lunch.
3. Brush your teeth at least
twice a day. Morning and evening are the best times, or
following two of your main meals. This will help to remove food
bits that can cause discoloration or decay. You can use
whitening toothpaste if you prefer, which will provide a low-key
brightening effect on your teeth without the use of harsh
chemicals or abrasive products. Ask your dentist to recommend a
safe whitener for this purpose.
4. Ask about tetracycline
substitutes. If you are prescribed tetracycline, a popular
antibiotic, ask the doctor if there is a reasonable substitute,
as tetracycline has been known to discolor patients’ teeth,
especially those who took it frequently or for prolonged periods
of time. If you must take it, check with your dentist about how
to combat the potential darkening effect it may have on your
teeth. Other medications may have this effect, as well, so if
tooth color is a problem, ask your doctor about the potential
for discoloration for any prescription you receive, or simply
inquire about those you should avoid.
One alternative is to merely
accept your teeth the way they are. Unless they are extremely
yellow or darkened, most people will not notice them, and they
should pose no particular health hazard. Another option is to
try a home whitening treatment that you can do yourself. This
will save money and time, but it involves a bleaching process
that probably uses peroxide or another chemical. Ask your
dentist about the advisability of this type of product if you
are thinking of trying one. Society views white teeth as an
indication of good health and wholesome hygiene, not to mention
physical attractiveness, so make the most of your pearly whites.
For more information on how
to prevent dental stains without chemicals, Visit
The Denture Spot
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