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Some people have naturally darker enamel. But most teeth stains come from what you put in your mouth. Coffee, red wine, soda, smoking. The usual suspects.
Good news: teeth stains aren’t permanent. You don’t need expensive treatments to see improvement. Start with the obvious stuff.
1. Cut Back on Staining Drinks
Heavy coffee drinker? That’s your problem. Same with soda and red wine. You don’t have to quit completely, but drink water between cups or brush right after. Straws help too (less contact with front teeth).
Smoking stains worse than anything you can drink. If you can’t quit, at least rinse your mouth after.
2. Take Your Vitamins
Vitamins A, C, and D strengthen enamel. Calcium too. Stronger enamel resists staining better. Take them daily, follow the label directions. Your elementary school teacher was right about this one.
3. Brush Your Teeth
Twice a day minimum. Three times is better. Use actual toothpaste, be thorough, and don’t skip your tongue. Bacteria on your tongue transfers back to your teeth.
If you drink coffee or soda during the day, brush within 30 minutes. Don’t wait until bedtime.
4. Have A Dentist At Your Side
Professional cleanings remove surface stains that brushing misses. If you have insurance, go twice a year. Even without insurance, an annual cleaning beats spending money on whitening strips that only work halfway.
Teeth whitening products work if you use them correctly. Read the instructions. Don’t overdo it or you’ll damage your enamel and make staining worse.
