Tooth discoloration can have negative impacts on your life. Read on to learn about the causes of and solutions to tooth discoloration.
While there are various tooth, gum, and mouth issues that you could suffer from when it comes to your dental health, some are certainly more pressing than others. An aching tooth or even a broken tooth requires immediate care from your dentist to stop the pain and prevent long-term problems, for instance. Tooth discoloration, on the other hand, is less pressing, and most people try to deal with it on their own (though tooth whitening is a service that most dentists provide). Tooth discoloration can still have negative impacts on your life, including impacting your confidence and ability to live your life fully, even if it isn’t as pressing as a cavity, however. Read on to learn about the causes of and solutions to tooth discoloration.
Smoking
Smoking is one of the biggest contributors to tooth discoloration. Nicotine causes yellow or brown surface stains on your teeth, so even if you are whitening, if you’re still smoking, you’re just making new stains. Kick this habit if you want white teeth.
Foods And Drinks
Most food is pigmented and many of those colors can deposit stains on your teeth. Tomato products, berries, and even spices like curry can cause staining, though more often than not these stains are only surface level and easy to brush away. Drinks, especially coffee and tea are also big culprits in tooth staining.
Natural Shades
It may surprise you to learn that teeth that are white actually come in four major natural shades of white: reddish-brown, reddish-yellow, reddish-gray, and gray. The natural shade of your teeth is influenced by genetics, so if your parents’ teeth tend towards the yellow hue, yours likely will too. Thin enamel that allows the dentin to show through will also make these natural tones more noticeable since dentin is brownish to deep yellow in color. This thinning of your tooth enamel is not just the result of improper brushing or dental routine – as you age, the dentin naturally thins.
Medicines
Medicines will also occasionally cause tooth discoloration, so if you’re wondering if a new med is a culprit you should ask your doctor or pharmacist. Older medicine usage could also be the cause of tooth discoloration as well. If you took a tetracycline antibiotic before the age of eight (or if your mother took one during her second trimester of pregnancy), research has shown that this can contribute to permanent staining of your adult teeth. The good news is that in-office whitening can help.
For all of your oral care questions and concerns, Olney Dental has the expertise and professionalism to get them the answers they need. Olney Dental is ready to supply you with expert service in a professional environment. Schedule an appointment online today! For more information on how we can give your family the best dentist experience available, give us a call at (301) 250-1057 or contact us online. For more dental tips, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Pinterest.