What is one of the first things you notice when you meet someone new? It’s the persons way of speaking, opinions, hand gestures- in other words a person’s mannerisms? Not really. Your smile is one of the first things to catch a person’s eyes. People perceive or relate to a person by their smile, or teeth.

If you are trying to sell a teeth whitening product and your teeth are gray or yellow, do you really think you will make a sale? Unless you have extreme sales prowess, your customer will probably be turned off by your teeth and will not buy from you.

If you are a motivational speaker do you think you will have much credibility with stained, crooked teeth? “How can we rely on this person if he/she cannot even care for their own teeth”…people would probably be thinking this to themselves?!”

True enough, having white teeth can have an impact not only on how you feel about yourself but also on how people would relate to you. Teeth discoloration and stains can have a negative effect on your self-esteem, confidence, credibility, and attitude. It will be easier for you to do something about it if you first study about teeth stains and discoloration.

Types of Teeth Stains and Discoloration

There are two kinds of teeth discoloration and stains, which include localize and generalized. The localized stains are present only on a single tooth or a specific part of the teeth. Generalized, on the other hand, involves more teeth.

Intrinsic and extrinsic are two kinds of discolorations or stains on teeth. Extrinsic teeth discoloration are due to external factors such as plaque and tartar, poor oral hygiene, failed restorations, bleeding gums, food and beverages, and smoking

Meanwhile, intrinsic teeth discoloration is caused by underlying or systemic factors that lead to enamel defects. Some of the probable causes include hereditary disorders, medications, fluorisis, high fever during early childhood, eruption of the crown, and trauma. Intrinsic stains are more complicated and involve complex whitening treatments.

Preventive Measures

·        Healthy lifestyle

Smoking can contribute to discolored teeth so if you want white teeth, avoid lighting up your cigarettes. Moreover, have a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, most of which are natural whiteners.

·        Avoidance of stain  causing food and beverage

Soy sauce, tomato sauce, red wine, soda, black berries, tea, blue berries, and coffee are known for causing teeth discoloration. You should limit your intake of such foods and drinks.

·        Proper hygiene

Make sure you brush and floss two times each day. Schedule a professional dental cleaning at least once or twice a year.

Removing Teeth Stains and Discoloration

·        Dental procedures

In-house teeth bleaching and laser teeth whitening are two of the most popular dental procedures that you can undergo to achieve white teeth.

·        Home remedies

Common household items such as lemon juice, baking soda, salt, dried orange peel, and strawberries can be applied or rubbed into your teeth to achieve a whiter look.

·        Whitening products

Whitening gels, strips, mouth guards, and toothpastes are only few of the many do-it-yourself teeth whitening products that are available in the market today.

Knowing there are treatments for gray or yellow teeth helps you cope until you get the treatment you need. You must study about this thoroughtly and consult your dentist to find the best way to whiten your teeth.