What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
There are a surprising number of causes for yellowed or discolored teeth, more than most people realize. Some are easier to avoid than others, but all are worth knowing about if you want to protect the white of your smile.
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Medications
Children 8-years-old or under that take the antibiotics doxycycline or tetracycline can develop discoloration in their teeth. Other drugs can also cause discoloration, including antispsychotic drugs, antihistamines and high blood pressure medicine. Mouthwashes that contain cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine can also cause teeth to discolor.
Tobacco
Smoking or chewing tobacco is a well-known cause of teeth discoloration.
Coffee and Tea
Coffee and tea can discolor teeth, especially if left on the enamel for extended periods of time. You can try drinking these drinks through a straw, or limit your intake to reduce exposure. If you do drink tea or coffee, try to brush your teeth directly after to limit stains.
Fluoride
Fluoride is found naturally in groundwater in many areas, and is often added in city water supplies. Fluoride can help strengthen the enamel of teeth, but it can also cause discoloration when taken in excess.
Genetics
Some people naturally have whiter or thicker enamel than others.
Age
As you grow older, the enamel on your teeth can wear away. This exposes more of the dentin underneath the enamel, which is yellowish in color.
Trauma
Trauma, such the impact from a fall, can cause discoloration in the teeth of adults. In children, it can lead to problems with enamel formation.
Poor hygiene
Plaque needs to be removed regularly by brushing and professional teeth cleaning. Plaque can cause discoloration when it is not removed. Other stain causing materials, like tea, coffee and tobaccos, need to be removed by brushing if you hope to avoid permanent discoloration.
Doing Your Best To Avoid Stains and Discoloration
You may not be able to control your genetics, but you can do your part to limit the discoloration of your teeth. Taking the time to brush your teeth regularly, avoiding stain-causing substances like tobacco and coffee, and getting regularly teeth cleanings can do a lot to keep your smile white and bright.
You can also seek professional teeth whitening services from your cosmetic dentist. This can give you a fresh start, and can often help minimize or even eliminate the stubborn stains that you cannot get rid of on your own.
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