Over a period of time, your teeth can get discolored and stained unless it is good oral hygiene is practiced. There are many factors that cause discoloration of the teeth, and among the most common factors are:

• Eating or drinking dark-colored dishes and beverages like coffee and soda
• Habitual chewing or smoking tobacco that leads to an accumulation of tarry plaque, thus,  ultimately leaving yellowish stains  on the enamel of your teeth
• Infrequent brushing of teeth or poor oral hygiene that negatively affects maintenance of immunity against staining and gum-causing diseases—eventually leading to bad breath and decaying teeth
• Genetic composition, where some people have naturally brighter teeth while some are born with darker ones

Exposure of the tooth’s dentin and the wearing off of enamel due to aging There are a lot of teeth whitening approaches available, ranging from commercial “do it yourself” products to the more technical ways done by dentists and orthodontists.  The simplest and most commonly used are toothpastes, mouthwashes, whitening gels. However, the effect of most over-the-counter  teeth whitening products take two to four weeks or even more depending on its quality and efficiency.

On the other hand, dental procedures can promise more sustainable effects through the use of chemical processes and specialized whitening techniques.  Specifically, our dental health experts at Union Hills Family Dentistry will determine the appropriate method that will suit your teeth’s unique condition. For instance, we will make a custom mouthpiece tray that guarantees the exact quantity of whitening solution to your teeth. The bleaching process usually takes only 1 to 2 hours every visit. If needed, we can make the procedure more continuous through suggesting a system that you can do at home.

Ultimately, people should always remember that teeth can get stained over and over again especially if they are constantly submerged into the same discoloring substances. So, always remember that good oral hygiene practices like habitual brushing twice a day and flossing daily is very important in protecting your pearly whites.  Moreover, regular visits to the dentist every six months or more frequently will ensure healthier teeth and gums, as well as a solid prevention against plaque formation, stains and other, potential threats to your oral health.