Currently, we’re closed for cosmetic treatments, but still offering residents of North Hollywood, CA, emergency care on a case-by-case basis. However, if you have concerns about your teeth developing stains, we have a few tips for keeping them bright with routine homecare and better diet choices. Remember, as soon as we’re able, we would love to start offering our high-end cosmetic treatments for smiles in our community!

The Causes of Discoloration

How does discoloration form on our smiles? The causes could vary, but are often related to our oral hygiene habits and what eat and drink. For example, when we don’t brush and floss as recommended, this allows bacteria to feed on food particles on and between our teeth, increasing the severity of plaque buildup. The layers coating the teeth then make stains more visible, and also increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Drinks with dark pigments and tannins, like tea, red wine, coffee, and soda could leave behind discoloration. Smoking cigarettes and using other tobacco products also stains your teeth (and elevates your risk of developing cancer as well).

Tips for Keeping Smiles Bright from Home

First, try to cut back on coffee, tea, red wine, or soda, and if you enjoy a glass of one, then follow it with water to help cleanse your smile. Consuming healthy food choices in lieu of sugary and starchy items also reduces the severity of plaque buildup. You also fight plaque by removing the food particles that feed bacteria, which is possible when you brush for two minutes in the morning and again at night. We also urge people to floss up and down each side of every tooth before going to bed. Be wary of whitening toothpastes and strips, as these could cause sensitivity. Try to avoid home remedies like oil pulling, charcoal toothpaste, and vinegar too, as you’re more likely end up with an upset stomach than a brighter smile.

Our In-Office and At-Home Cosmetic Whitening Procedures

When we can open our doors, our team is ready to remove teeth stains with in-office and at-home options. Our in-office procedure involves coating the teeth in a bleaching gel and using a light to active the gel and break up stains, all in about one to two hours. With our home-based option, we send you home with a custom-made set of plastic trays and a bleaching gel. Wearing the gel-filled trays for 30 to 45 minutes a day over period of a week to ten days could offer significant results!

Do You Have Questions About Cosmetic Dentistry?

With a high-tech approach to cosmetic dental care, we’re ready to help you obtain the smile of your dreams as soon as our doors can open! For more information on our approach to cosmetic dentistry, then schedule a consultation by calling Modern Smiles in North Hollywood, CA, today at 818-763-9353. We also proudly serve patients who live in Burbank, Toluca Lake, and all surrounding communities.