What You Need to Know About Tooth Discoloration

We all want a bright and beautiful smile to greet the world. You may be embarassed to show your teeth, though, due tooth discoloration. For today’s blog post, we want to help you better understand the causes, prevention, and treatment of tooth discoloration. Let’s get started!

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

The causes of tooth discoloration often fall into three categories: extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related.

Extrinsic Discoloration

This type of staining affects the outer surface of the tooth, or the enamel. It is usually caused by lifestyle choices, such as:

• Foods and beverages: Tea, coffee, red wine, grape or cranberry juice, and deeply pigmented foods like berries or tomato sauce can stain enamel.
• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco is a major cause of yellow or brown stains on teeth.
• Disease: Some diseases may impact both the enamel and the dentin (the material under enamel) and lead to discoloration. Treatment for certain conditions — like chemotherapy or radiation around the head and neck — can also cause teeth to lose their natural whiteness.
• Poor oral hygiene: Of course, inadequate brushing and flossing may cause plaque and other stain-producing substances to build up on the teeth.

Intrinsic Discoloration

Intrinsic stains occur inside the tooth and can result from:

• Medications: Certain antibiotics (like stetracycline and doxycycline) taken when teeth are still developing (before the age of eight) can cause tooth discoloration. Additionally, antihistamines or drugs for high blood pressure may cause teeth to lose their natural whiteness.
• Trauma: Injuries to a tooth can cause it to darken over time.
• Fluorosis: Overexposure to fluoride during early childhood can cause white spots or streaks on teeth.

Age-Related Discoloration

As you age, the enamel on your teeth naturally thins, revealing more of the yellowish dentin underneath. Along with your genetics as well as years of exposure to staining foods and beverages, your teeth may appear duller or less white.

How to Prevent Tooth Discoloration

While some factors are beyond our control, there are many simple steps you can take to protect your smile, including:

• Practice good oral health habits: Brush your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day to remove plaque and food particles.
• Pay attention to teeth-staining food and drinks: Always rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or beverages. If you need to start your day with coffee or tea, drink it through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
• Quit smoking: If you’re a smoker, quitting can significantly improve the color of your teeth and your overall oral health.
• Schedule regular dental cleamings: Of course, you should never skip your twice-yearly dental appointments! Professional cleanings at Maitland Ave Smile Co. remove the surface stains that brushing alone can’t eliminate.

Treatment Options for Tooth Discoloration

1. At-Home Teeth Whitening

Our patients often ask us how they can whiten their teeth at home — and fortunately, there are many options available for removing tooth discoloration on your own. You can use a whitening toothpaste with hydrogen peroxide or carbide peroxide to gradually lighten your teeth. You can also use whitening strips for a more intense change; just be sure to carefully follow the instructions and avoid overuse. 

2. Dental Bonding

Bonding involves applying a tooth-colored resin to more localized discolorations. This option is great for stubborn or smaller stains. 

3. Veneers

Porcelain veneers are custom-made shells that fully cover the front of your teeth, masking deep stains and creating a brighter, natural-looking smile.

We hope you’ll reach out to Maitland Ave Smile Co. for all of your dental health needs.

We’re passionate about helping you achieve the beautiful, healthy smile you deserve. Whether you’re looking to prevent stains or explore whitening solutions, our team is here to create a personalized plan that helps you meet your goals. 

Ready to love your smile again? Call us today at 407.834.0330 to schedule your next appointment!

Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like your family’s dental routine, dental anxiety, and more.