No 4 (September) - Staining.
Over time stains build up on the teeth. The most common causes are related to everyday things we eat, drink and smoke e.g. red wine, tea, coffee, beetroot, curry, coke and cigarettes.
There are some very common but less obvious causes for staining that are worth noting.
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Mouthwashes containing chlorhexidine digluconate. These are often recommended for patients by their clinician to treat gum disease, minor oral irritations, bleeding gums and mouth ulcers. Chlorhexidine is functional due to the ability to bind to a bacterial cell. This binding capability means it can cause a dark brown stain on the teeth that can appear similar to cigarette stain.
- Herbal teas. Many people prefer herbal teas to conventional tea. These herbal or fruit teas are generally the worst culprits for the staining. This is exacerbated by the lack of milk added. By adding milk to tea and coffee the staining potential is reduced.
- Cranberry / blueberry Juice. The staining is caused by a combination of the acidity of the fruit (that can attack the enamel) and the natural dark colour of the berry. (Don't forget many cranberry juices are high in sugar to counterbalance the bitter taste)
For some, these dietary and lifestyle habits are hard to change. For those of you not ready to survive the day without that morning black coffee.....
What can we do?
Using an electric toothbrush, like an Oral B with an oscillating head, can provide a daily polishing effect which can help reduce staining. It is never advisable to brush immediately after consuming something acidic as this can exaggerate acid erosion.
Cutting down or giving up on cigarettes will reduce staining, but for those not ready to just yet, can use an electric tooth brush and visit the hygienist for regular stain removal sessions – we now have the availability of an air powered tooth polishing system.
Using a straw for you drink helps acidic liquids and stains bypass the teeth. This isn't advised for your red wine at the bar, but definitely for those juices and fizzy drinks at home.
Tooth whitening breaks down staining from microscopic opening in the teeth, allowing stains to become small enough to pass out of the tooth. This will remove staining and make the appearance of the teeth much brighter. This unfortunately will not prevent staining from building up again, and to maintain white teeth bleaching will need to be repeated.
Stain removing and whitening tooth pastes are also on the market. Be careful with these as some can be abrasive and not all contain fluoride. For any further advice ask your dentist or hygienist.
Click Here to view Laraine's Hygiene Tips Archive
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