Go to your bathroom mirror and take a look at your smile. How do your teeth appear? If they are a bit yellow or discolored, you may be interested in lightening them. Here is some information about dental discoloration and how to brighten it: 

What Causes Discoloration of the Teeth?

Whether the discolored teeth are adult or primary teeth, there are a number of possible causes. Some of the culprits are the foods and drinks you consume. Beverages, such as coffee and tea, are notorious for causing teeth to yellow.

Moreover, sugary juices and acidic soft drinks can lead to tooth decay, causing teeth to become discolored. Other things like red wine, pasta sauce, and fruit can stain teeth as well. Consistent brushing and flossing can help to decrease the likelihood of significant tooth discoloration, especially if whitening toothpaste is used.

However, some discoloration can be deep, such as that caused by tobacco pigments. As you smoke or chew tobacco, the brown pigments of the tobacco are absorbed by your teeth.  Regular use of tobacco can result in brown teeth.

Teeth can also be darkened by certain medications, trauma or even a birth defect.

How to Brighten Yellow Teeth

You can prevent some tooth discoloration by refraining from drinking dark-colored beverages or using a straw when you do. This will limit the drink's contact with your teeth. Moreover, eating certain fruits and veggies, such as apples, broccoli, and carrots, which have a high fiber content,  can help scrub debris from dental surfaces.

In addition, be sure to brush and floss in the morning and at bedtime. You can add natural whitening agents to your usual toothbrush by dipping the brush in hydrogen peroxide before applying your toothpaste or by sprinkling baking soda on your brush.

Also, your dentist may have some whitening recommendations for you, such as whitening strips, rinses or toothpaste, In moderate to severe cases of discoloration, he or may suggest an in-office whitening treatment.

During an in-office treatment, the dentist applies a peroxide-based whitening gel to the teeth and then uses a special light to intensify the effects of the whitening solution. For teeth that are discolored due to medicine, trauma or a congenital defect, dental veneers may be the best whitening option.

 If you would like to learn more tips to keep your teeth their whitest, contact the office of a local dentist like Russell M Morrell DMD and schedule an appointment today!