How self-conscious are you about your teeth? Not everyone has a movie star smile, often because they have teeth that are stained or decaying. To prevent teeth from staining or decaying you may want to look into getting work done such as porcelain veneers. This will strengthen your teeth and improve the look of them. But why are we facing these problems in today’s society?
Most people don’t know why their teeth are stained or starting to form cavities. In this article, we’ll discuss the major causes of tooth decay and staining. Then we’ll provide solutions that may help you. Keep reading to find out more.
4 Causes of Tooth Decay
1. Dry Mouth Syndrome
Dry mouth syndrome is a condition caused by the insufficient production of saliva. These glands are supposed to produce enough saliva in the mouth to fight germs, reduce bad breath and keep the mouth comfortable.
A dry mouth allows plaque to form on the teeth and causes food remnants to stay stuck in between your teeth. When your glands don’t produce enough saliva it can cause harmful acids that will remove the enamel off your teeth and cause cavities.
2. Lack of Vitamins and Minerals
Lack of proper vitamins and minerals can cause tooth decay especially if you’re lacking vitamin D. Without the proper nutrients your body is unable to fight bacteria that cause tooth decay. Women sometimes suffer from tooth decay because pregnancy saps all the nutrients from their systems.
3. Eating Too Much Sugar
A combination of sugar, bacteria and saliva can cause tooth decay. This combination causes a build-up of plaque on the teeth which can dissolve enamel over time. You’re at high risk of developing cavities if you eat sugary sweets and drink carbonated beverages regularly.
4. Poor Oral Hygiene
Not brushing your teeth every day can cause the build-up of harmful acids and bacteria in the mouth. It’s especially important to brush your teeth before you go to bed at night because the production of saliva in the mouth decreases when you’re sleeping.
4 Reasons Why Your Teeth are Stained
1. You Smoke Cigarettes
The nicotine and tar found inside cigarettes can leave yellow stains on your teeth. Smoking cigarettes can also cause tartar build up. Chewing tobacco can also leave stains on your teeth.
2. Drinking Beverages that Cause Staining
Coffee, tea and wine all have properties that can discolour your teeth. This is caused by the build-up of tannins. Tannins are organic substances found in plants used to make coffees, teas and wines.
Additionally, there are foods such as apples and potatoes that can also cause teeth staining.
3. Aging
Your teeth darken as you age. When you get older the enamel on your teeth starts to wear and as a result, the darker dentin is exposed. This will make teeth appear yellow or brown.
4. Taking Certain Medication
Certain medications such as antibiotics can discolour teeth. Antihistamines also have properties in them that can cause your teeth to look discoloured.
Top Solutions to Fix Decaying, Misshaped or Stained Teeth
General Teeth Treatment
One of the top solutions to keeping your teeth strong and stained-free is to put porcelain veneers over them. A layer of porcelain is bonded to a tooth to strengthen it and to prevent it from decaying or staining over time.
You can get a full mouth of porcelain veneers done to improve the aesthetics of your teeth. This solution is also used to reshape crooked teeth or ones that are misshaped.
To prevent tooth decay you must practice excellent oral hygiene. Brush your teeth in the morning and before you go to bed at night. Flossing is also important to remove food in between the teeth.
What to Do About Dry Mouth
If you have dry mouth syndrome, try eating foods that increase the production of saliva such as yoghurt or fruit. Drink lots of water to wash your mouth after you’ve eaten.
What to do About Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency
Always eat foods that are high in vitamins and minerals to decrease the risk of tooth decay. You can also take supplements such as a multivitamin with your food. Increase your intake of vitamin D because it helps with the absorption of calcium which promotes healthy teeth and bones.
What to Do About Teeth Staining
Use toothpaste that has whitening properties to get rid of stains on the teeth. There are also whitening products on the market that will help remove stains, but they may not be best for a long-term solution. You can also visit your dentist to get your teeth cleaned and bleached.
Final Thoughts
Taking care of your teeth doesn’t have to be difficult. Simply brush your teeth and floss every day. Visit your dentist every six months for a check-up so you can fix any problems before they become severe. Or you can get porcelain veneers bonded to your teeth to improve their strength and aesthetics.
Take care of your teeth so you don’t have to deal with cavities and staining. You can love your smile again.