How to Understand Tooth Discoloration Causes
Tooth discoloration is a common dental complaint and was first treated thousands of years ago with natural methods to conceal undesirable colorations in the teeth. The tooth-whitening industry is now a highly sophisticated multi-billion dollar industry.
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Consider tobacco (whether chewed or smoked) to be one of the most common causes of tooth discoloration. Beverages such as coffee, tea and red wine also have strong staining effects. Colas and certain fruits and vegetables such as apples and potatoes also may discolor teeth.
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Examine inadequate brushing and flossing as a contributing factor to tooth discoloration. The stain-producing effect of plaque and other materials is increased the longer they remain on the teeth.
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Investigate the tooth-staining effect of some medications. Tetracycline and doxycycline are notorious for this and other common medications in this category include cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine, which are primarily found in mouthwashes.
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Learn about the tooth-staining effect of excessive fluoride. Some municipalities add a high amount of fluoride to their water supply and excessive use of fluoride-containing supplements also can cause discoloration of teeth.
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Expect some dental materials, especially those from extensive procedures such as root canals, to darken individual teeth. Amalgams containing silver sulfide can turn teeth a gray-black color.
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Look for teeth to become yellow with age. The enamel eventually wears away to reveal the yellow dentin underneath. Genetics also plays a factor because there is considerable variation in the natural thickness of enamel.
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