What Causes Tooth Discoloration and How to Prevent It?

Posted by James Franklin on September 27th, 2022

Have you noticed that the color of your teeth is changing? Perhaps they've turned yellow or become less white than they used to be. Tooth stains and discoloration are common and can be caused by a number of factors. Fortunately, the majority of these strains are avoidable and treatable. Continue reading to learn more about tooth discoloration and how to keep your smile looking great.

Changes in the color of the teeth are referred to as tooth discoloration. They may turn yellow or lose their white and bright appearance. In some cases, they may develop dark or white spots. Tooth discoloration can be caused by several factors, including intrinsic (from within the body), extrinsic (from outside the body), and age. Tooth discoloration can result from a number of factors, including:

• Lifestyle.  Food and beverages are major causes of tooth discoloration. Tooth discoloration is commonly caused by excessive consumption of coffee, soda, tea, red wine, red sauces, chocolate, and starchy foods. Tobacco also causes a high percentage of tooth discoloration in smokers.

• Aging.  The outer layer of tooth enamel gradually wears away with age, exposing the dentin. Dentin is the yellowish tissue that makes up the majority of the teeth, making them more susceptible to decay and damage.

• Poor oral hygiene.  Failure to brush and floss the teeth is a major contributor to plaque and tartar buildup in the teeth and gums. Cleaning your teeth after consuming pigmented foods and beverages is especially important. If you can't, at the very least rinse your mouth.

• Disease.  Tooth discoloration can be caused by diseases that prevent the natural development of dentin and enamel. Additionally, some treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation for the neck and head, can cause tooth discoloration.

• Medication.  Certain medications, such as doxycycline and tetracycline, can cause tooth discoloration in children, particularly those under the age of eight because they affect enamel formation. Antihistamines, as well as antihypertensive drugs, antipsychotic drugs, and antihistamines, cause tooth discoloration. Also, rinses and mouthwashes containing cetylpyridinium and chlorhexidine can stain the teeth.

• Genetics.  Some families have naturally brighter and thicker enamel than others, while others are more susceptible to tooth discoloration. You can take additional preventive measures to protect your teeth depending on the type of discoloration that runs in your family.

• Environmental aspects.  Environmental factors contribute to tooth discoloration, especially during tooth formation. Excessive fluoride exposure, for example, from naturally high fluoride levels in water or fluoride applications, rinses, and toothpaste, can cause fluorosis, resulting in mild to severe tooth discoloration.

You can help prevent tooth discoloration by making a few simple lifestyle changes. The first and most important step is to brush and floss your teeth. It also helps to use the proper toothpaste, eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, use a straw, and stop smoking. Finally, get regular dental checkups and cleanings from a reputable dentist in your area.

Remember that your smile is an asset that must be protected. Use the information provided above to learn more about tooth discoloration and how to avoid it. If you have discoloration on your teeth, schedule an appointment with your dentist to discuss how to remove it and bring your teeth back to life.