Who doesn’t want a pearly white smile? Yet, some people find their teeth stained and discolored no matter what they do. What could cause perfectly healthy teeth to darken and yellow? Here are a few of the most common culprits.
Certain Foods
We eat a lot of things that can stain and discolor our teeth: coffee, tea, colas, wines, and even certain fruits and vegetables such as apples and potatoes. Want to know if something you are eating is discoloring your teeth? Check to see if it will stain a cup, plate, or other hard surface item.
Smoking
It is a proven fact: cigarettes and chewing tobacco are two of the leading causes of tooth discoloration, making your smile yellow, dark, and unsightly.
Poor Dental Hygiene
If you do not brush your teeth correctly and floss regularly to remove yellowing plaque and other stain-producing substances that could be sticking to the tooth surface, they may discolor.
Disease
Some diseases affect the hard surface of the teeth and the underlying material under the tooth enamel, leading to discoloration. In addition, treatments for certain conditions such as head and neck radiation and chemotherapy can change the color of your teeth. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if any of your medications or vitamins could be discoloring your smile.
Medications
The antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline are known to discolor teeth when given to children whose teeth are still developing (usually before the age of 8). Antihistamines such as Benadryl, antipsychotic drugs, and antihypertensive medications can also discolor teeth.
Some Dental Materials
Amalgam restorations, especially silver sulfide-containing materials, can cast a gray-black color to teeth over time.
Age
As you get older, the outer layer of enamel on your teeth may wear away, revealing the natural yellow color of dentin underneath the outer enamel.
Genetics
Some people have naturally brighter or thicker enamel than others. This can make their teeth look brighter and whiter than others.
Environment
Some amount of fluoride is good for your teeth, but too much can cause tooth discoloration. Giving children fluoride supplements when they are already receiving fluoridated water can cause severe staining of their teeth.
To learn more about
teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry options such as
porcelain veneers and
porcelain dental crowns, we encourage you to visit our
cosmetic dentistry practice near Houston to learn more.