Coffee To Red Wine: How Teeth Whitening Can Combat Stains

27 March 2023
 Categories: Dentist, Blog

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Dental stains come from a variety of sources, particularly food and drinks. If you have questions about fighting stains, it helps to know what causes stains in the first place. Here's how you can combat food stains with teeth whitening services.

Coffee, Tea, and Wine Cause Tooth Discoloration

Coffee and tea, as well as red wine, all contain tannins — a natural compound that can cause discoloration. 

Tannins are also found in most dark-colored fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and beets. The pigments in these foods and beverages are acidic, which can cause them to bond with the enamel of your teeth.

Of course, these aren't the only causes of teeth stains. Smoking, poor oral hygiene, aging, and certain medications can all contribute to tooth discoloration.

Whitening Your Teeth Can Help

There's good news. Different teeth whitening treatments are available to combat these kinds of stains. While you can opt for at-home whitening treatments, you can also get dental treatments at your dentist's office.

In-office dental whitening offers a few benefits. It takes less time than at-home whitening treatments, and it is completed in a single visit. Professional whitening also provides more dramatic results because it contains a higher concentration of bleaching agent.

What Is Whitening Treatment Like?

The process begins with a consultation, during which your dentist will evaluate the condition of your teeth and determine if whitening is the right option for you.

During the procedure, your dentist will apply a protective gel to your gums and then apply a bleaching solution directly to the surface of your teeth. A special light may be used to help activate the bleaching solution, resulting in faster and more effective results.

How to Maintain Teeth Whitening Results

Avoiding certain foods can help maintain your whitening results. Avoid beverages and foods that are high in acidity or contain intense colors — such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark fruits and vegetables.

If you do plan to indulge, make sure to drink the beverages through a straw so that it doesn't come in direct contact with your teeth. Also, brushing your teeth shortly after eating or drinking can help to protect the teeth from staining.

Teeth Whitening Is Effective and Safe

Teeth whitening is a safe, effective way to brighten your smile. It's important that you work with a professional dentist who can customize the best whitening treatment plan for you.

The key is to consult with your dentist and find a teeth whitening solution that meets your needs.