3 Major Reasons for Discolored Teeth

Most people want bright, white teeth, but unfortunately, you may have to deal with discoloration at some point.

Teeth develop stains or become discolored for a few reasons. This blog post highlights three of them. You will also learn about crucial tips to help you understand how to avoid tooth discoloration. So if your smile could use some TLC, read on for helpful information.

1. Poor Dental Hygiene

When you do not brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth. If you do not get rid of the plaque, the sticky film can turn into tartar (a harder substance) that gives your teeth a yellow hue. Tartar is rather unsightly and can be difficult to remove without professional help.

Not only does plaque and tartar cause teeth discoloration, but they also leave you vulnerable to gum disease. Gum disease is an infection of the gums that can damage the soft tissue and bone that support your teeth.

You have to practice good dental hygiene to stay clear of these issues. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. A healthy routine can help remove plaque before it has a chance to harden into tartar.

In addition, make sure you visit your dentist regularly for teeth cleaning sessions. During your appointment, your dentist will remove any plaque and tartar you might miss during your at-home dental routine.

2. Certain Foods and Beverages

Foods like blueberries, strawberries, and dark soy sauce are all examples of foods that can stain your teeth. The pigments in these foods cling to tooth enamel and cause gradual discoloration.

Additionally, coffee, tea, and red wine are a few common drinks that can cause discoloration. The tannins in these drinks slowly create stains on your teeth.

To avoid discoloration from food and drink, be aware of the foods and beverages that can worsen the problem. And if you do consume these foods, brush your teeth as soon as you are done. Also, use a straw when you drink beverages like flavored soda or red wine. This strategy will help avoid contact between your teeth and the staining beverage.

3. Smoking

The nicotine and tar in cigarettes can also stain your teeth. Nicotine is a yellowish substance that clings to teeth and causes them to become discolored over time. Tar is a dark substance that clings to teeth and causes them to lose their white color.

Smoking can also lead to other dental problems like gum disease. The nicotine in cigarettes decreases saliva production, which triggers a buildup of bacteria and tartar on your teeth. You not only have to worry about discoloration but tooth decay as well.

If you smoke and have concerns about discoloration, you can do a few things to help minimize the staining. First, try and cut back on the number of cigarettes you smoke each day. This step can be difficult to do on your own, but many resources are available to help you quit.

You can use over-the-counter nicotine withdrawal products such as nicotine patches and gum to make the process easier. If you do smoke a cigarette, rinse your mouth out with water or brush your teeth after to remove any residual nicotine or tar on your teeth.

Discolored teeth can be a constant source of embarrassment, but you do not have to live with this problem. Contact us at Rabel Family Dentistry for a same-day teeth cleaning appointment to achieve the bright, white smile you have always wanted.