Everyone who lives on this planet should be concerned with being eco-friendly.  Dentists are beginning to move toward green.  Recently an article in New Beauty by Erica Pearlman outlined what make an eco-friendly dentist. The traditional procedure of drilling is being replaced by the green option of lasers.  The beams of light energy emitted by lasers can prepare teeth for fillings, surgical treatment of gums and gum recontouring. Lasers allow dentists to be more conservative and holistic.  The traditional procedure of metal fillings is now replaced by composite fillings. By using tooth-colored resin material to fill cavities instead of metal, dentists enhance both the health and beauty of the mouth and minimize the risks of environmental pollution. The traditional procedure of dentures can now be replaced with implants.  Dentures require a great deal of maintenance, materials and production chemicals.  Dental implants are performed in one visit using fewer materials in less time. The traditional dental x-rays are now replaced with digital x-rays.  Digital x-rays use about 80% less radiation can save 200 liters of toxic x-ray chemicals and eliminate 17,200 film foils over a five year period. The green dental movement has just begun and will continue to advance and improve ways of  reducing  pollutants for few years to come.

 At any time during a persons life the color of their teeth can be influenced by a number of factors.

• Foods that stain teeth:  Soy sauce, berries, curry, coffee, red wine (even my favorite Pinot Noir) dark soda, dark fruit juice
• Tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, pipes and even smokeless tobacco can cause tooth staining.
• Medications  such as Tetracycline and Doxycycline will cause teeth to stain if it is taken during those periods when teeth formation is occurring (i.e. pregnant women and children 8 years and under) 
• Extremely hot or cold liquids: can cause your teeth to expand and contract allowing stains to penetrate your teeth.
• Slightly acidic foods:  opens up the pores of the tooth enamel allowing stains to more easily move into your teeth.

To limit staining brush, floss and have regular dental cleanings and try to avoid events and foods that promote stain.