Teeth discoloration is when the color of your teeth changes, creating a stained appearance. Stained teeth don’t look as bright or white as they once did. There are a variety of causes for stained, discolored teeth, but the good news is that discoloration is reversible. It can also be prevented by following certain dental hygiene procedures.
If you’re wondering what causes stained teeth, the dentists here at Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center are here to answer your question. We also have tips on how to prevent your teeth from becoming discolored in the first place and tips for removing stains.
Causes of Stained Teeth
There are several reasons why teeth may darken. Some causes are out of our control, while others are preventable. Here are some of the most common causes of stained teeth.
- Foods and drinks: Tea, coffee, colas, wines, and some starchy food like pasta and potatoes can create conditions that create staining.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can stain teeth.
- Poor dental hygiene: Failing to keep up with brushing, flossing, and rinsing your teeth to remove plaque and stain-producing substances can cause your teeth to become discolored and stained.
- Disease: Diseases that prevent the normal development of tooth enamel and dentin can lead to tooth staining. Additionally, certain medical treatments such as neck and back radiation and chemotherapy can cause teeth to discolor. Some infections in pregnant mothers can affect enamel development in your baby and discolor their teeth.
- Aging: An unavoidable cause of teeth discoloration, aging can cause the outer layer of enamel on your teeth to wear away, revealing the natural color of dentin.
- Environment: Excessive fluoride coming from environmental sources or more excessive use can cause teeth discoloration.
Signs Your Teeth Are Stained
If you’re noticing your teeth are darker than they once were, they could be stained. Stained teeth can be the following colors:
- Yellow
- Brown
- White
- Black
- Purple
How to Prevent Teeth Stains for All Ages
Other than aging and disease, many causes of stained teeth are preventable. Taking care of your teeth is about dialing in on healthy habits and following them every day. Consider cutting back or finding an alternative if you’re a coffee drinker. If you smoke, seek out treatment to help you quit because smoking affects more than just your dental health. Remember to brush and floss daily and get regular dental check-ups and cleanings every six months. If your teeth are an abnormal color, schedule an appointment to see our Lakeview dentist.
What Toothpaste Removes Stains?
If you have stained teeth, there are ways to treat them. One way is tooth whitening toothpaste with the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. This means that it is dentist-approved.
Get in Touch for a Cleaning Today!
Besides regular dental cleanings, we perform Zoom! Whitening for teeth. Contact us at 773-525-5545 (Chicago) or 224-282-8939 (Deerfield).