Patients of Implant Dentistry of Florida in Melbourne know that our team is serious about dentistry. At the same time, we believe that learning about the nuances of oral care and dental treatments can be fun. Here, we welcome you to test out what you know about the various aspects of a healthy, attractive smile.
Which of the following could stain teeth?
- Coffee
- Fluoride
- Lemonade
- Antihistamine medication
- None of the above
- All of the above
Answer: 1. We all know that coffee is a culprit of yellow teeth, as well as tobacco use; but lemonade? Come on! In fact, the list of stain-causing foods and beverages may be far longer than you imagine. Lemonade, along with fruit juice, berries, and foods high in tannins, can all diminish your radiant smile.
Which of the following is best to resolve discoloration?
- Laser teeth whitening
- Professional whitening in the dentist’s office
- Professional home whitening using a kit from the dentist
- Porcelain veneers
- None of the above
- All of the above
Answer: 5. Or 6! It depends on how you look at it. We could say that there is no “best” way to remove stains on teeth. We could also say that any way is a good way. The truth is, everyone is different. If you have white stains on your teeth from fluoride use during childhood, these must be covered with veneers, rather than removed. Regarding professional whitening, the primary difference between methods is not how white your teeth can get, but how quickly they can reach your desired level of radiance.
Which of the following can lead to cavities?
- Soda
- Diet soda
- Sugar-free sports drinks
- Brushing after snacks and meals
- None of the above
- All of the above
Answer: 6. Many people think that cutting sugar means cutting cavities. Not so. While the risk of decay may be reduced if you avoid sugary soda, the fizzy nature of diet soda is just as dangerous, as is the acidity of sugar-free sports drinks. The problem is acid. Acid washes over teeth and degrades enamel bit by bit. So why not brush after a meal or snack? Because enamel is in a softened state for about 30 minutes, and brushing could cause more erosion, increasing the risk for cavities.
We would love to help you love your smile. Call (321) 259-9429 to schedule an exam and cleaning or consultation for cosmetic dental treatment.