When it comes to what causes tooth discoloration, we all know that coffee is a big offender. But did you know certain medications can change the shade of your smile, too? Learn what the most common causes of tooth discoloration are, and start preventing those unwanted stains today!
Top Seven Reasons Your Teeth Are Discolored
Our patients in Hutchinson experience tooth discoloration for a number of reasons, but these seven are at the top of the list.
#7: Poor Dental Hygiene
When proper brushing and flossing aren’t maintained, plaque and stain-producing substances are left on the teeth to cause tartar and major discoloration. To keep your smile pearly white, you should brush for at least two minutes, twice a day and floss once a day. Adding a fluoridated mouthwash doesn’t hurt, either.
#6: Certain Medications
When children younger than eight are given the popular antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline, their permanent teeth may be discolored when they appear. And in adults, antihistamines like Benadryl and medications for high blood pressure can also cause tooth discoloration.
#5: Too Much Fluoride
When teeth are exposed to too much fluoride during childhood, fluorosis can develop as a result. It’s a cosmetic condition that results in white, chalky stains on the teeth. Fortunately, the condition is rather simple to treat with services in cosmetic dentistry.
#4: Tooth Trauma
If a fall or other accident resulted in trauma to the tooth, the pulp may become damaged and result in a tooth that appears to be gray or black. Serious tooth decay can also cause this type of discoloration. Dental help must be sought immediately in either case.
#3: Genetics
As with everything else related to your body, whether your teeth are white or not depends on your genetics. Some people just have brighter, thicker enamel than others.
#2: Tobacco Use
It’s not surprising, but tobacco use is a huge factor in the shade of your teeth. Tooth enamel absorbs the stains from tobacco smoke and over time, your smile will appear dingier and dingier. If you’re ready to quit smoking but need a little help, ask your dentist for advice.
#1: Dark foods and drinks
The number one smile stainer for all adults has got to be to daily consumption of dark foods and drinks, and that means, you guessed it, coffee. If you’re interested in preventing stained teeth, try switching out coffee for green or white tea. And when you do indulge in dark chocolate or other treats, remember to rinse your mouth out with water right after — it’ll go far in removing the staining agents from the teeth.
Schedule Your Checkup in Hutchinson, KS for Whiter Teeth Today
Remember that excellent oral hygiene is required for maintaining a beautiful smile, so contact our office today if it’s been more than six months since your last oral exam. Our dental office in Hutchinson, KS serves patients from all over, including Willowbrook, Medora, Buhler, Nickerson and beyond.