7 Common Causes of Teeth Stain or Discoloration

Here at Northwest Family Dental, we acknowledge the importance of having and maintaining a naturally shining smile. Having pearly white teeth reflects good oral hygiene and overall healthy lifestyle. Unfortunately, no one is spared from getting yellow teeth thru staining or discoloration. Read more for some of the most common causes to watch out for.

• Poor Oral Hygiene — Failing to regularly brush and floss allows plaque and small pieces of food settle in and results to cavities and tooth discoloration.
• Food Intake — The most prevalent enemies of white teeth include coffee, tea, drinks rich in sugar, candies, cakes and pastries, and even fruits. They contain sugar and acid that need to be expelled from your teeth as soon as possible.
• Smoking — Tobacco greatly stains teeth, and regularly smoking or chewing it might darken them permanently.
• Aging — Enamel is the white, natural coating of your teeth which protects the inside yellowish material called dentin. As you age, the enamel fades and becomes more translucent, while the dentin increases. This is why it is fairly common for seniors to have yellowish teeth.
• Medical Condition — Various diseases can deteriorate the strength of one’s enamel and lead to weakened and stained teeth. Meanwhile, despite continuous developments in medicine, patients are still prone to teeth discoloration as a side effect of certain treatments and drugs. Chemotherapy and radiation, for instance, can cause discoloration. Children who don’t have permanent teeth yet are also prone to having yellowish ones if they take antibiotics. Even common medicines such as antihistamines, antipsychotic, and antihypertensive drugs can stain the teeth, depending on the dosage and frequency of intake.
• Dental Procedures — Materials containing silver sulfide which are used in certain oral operations can darken the patient’s teeth. It is also important to consult with your trusted dentist first before getting a teeth whitening treatment, especially if you already have dental crowns or veneers.
• Genetics — Some people are born with weaker or naturally yellowish enamel. Still, this does not mean that they cannot be white.

If you need to have a dental concern treated right away, call us now and schedule an appointment here at Northwest Family Dental. Thank you and have a good day!