7 Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration

If your teeth are stained or yellowed, it can be difficult to feel confident about your smile. But what causes this tooth discoloration in the first place? And what can you do about it?  Well, in this blog post, we will discuss the seven most common causes of tooth discoloration. We will also provide tips on how to prevent and treat tooth discoloration. Let’s get started!

1) Poor Oral Hygiene

Brushing and flossing aren’t just important for keeping cavities at bay – they’re also key components of tooth whitening and discoloration prevention.

See, by not brushing and flossing regularly, you can leave plaque on your teeth. Plaque is an accumulation of bacteria that sticks to the surface of your teeth, leading to discoloration and staining. Consistent brushing and flossing can help reduce the amount of bacteria on your teeth.

2) Eating/Drinking Certain Foods and Beverages

Some foods, such as blueberries and curry, contain pigments that can stain your teeth. And that’s not all – even your favourite beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can also cause discoloration because of their dark colours.

3) Smoking or Chewing Tobacco

Cigarette smoke and chewing tobacco are known to cause teeth discoloration. This is due to the tar, nicotine, and other substances in smoke and chewing tobacco that can stain the enamel of your teeth.

4) Certain Medications

Some medications, such as antibiotics, may cause discoloration in your teeth. However, in this case, it is usually a temporary side effect and should go away once you’re done taking the medication.

5) Aging

Overtime, your teeth may naturally become stained and yellowed due to the natural wear and tear of aging. Unfortunately, there’s only so much you can do about this one!

6) Trauma

If you have experienced a trauma to your mouth, this can cause discoloration of your teeth. This is because the trauma can cause damage to the enamel of your teeth, which can in turn cause discoloration.

7) High Levels of Fluoride

Too much exposure to fluoride can cause discoloration in the form of white spots. This type of discoloration may be more subtle than others, but it is still worth noting.

Tips to Prevent and Treat Tooth Discoloration

While some causes of tooth discoloration are out of your control, there are still steps you can take to prevent and treat the problem. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Practice good oral hygiene. Brush and floss regularly and try to avoid foods and drinks that can cause staining. 
  • Skip the cigarettes and chewing tobacco. Not only can these products cause discoloration, but they can also be detrimental to your overall health.
  • Talk to your dentist or dental hygienist about professional whitening treatments or products. They may have options that are more effective than over-the-counter products, such as the KöR Whitening system

The Bottom Line

There are many common causes of tooth discoloration. Fortunately, with the right prevention and treatment strategies, you can restore your teeth to their original pearly white colour. Be sure to visit your dentist or dental hygienist to discuss your options and find the best solution for you.  Good luck!

Interested in professional whitening treatments? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Hale Wellness Dental Studio, and make an appointment with us today.