Causes of Tooth Discoloration
The natural color of teeth is not the bright white you see in toothpaste commercials. At the same time, yellowing and darkening of teeth are not normal or ordinary. Changes in tooth color can occur for several reasons, with the most common being yellowing of teeth with hints of black and dark white spots.
The reasons for changing tooth color are numerous, and a change in color indicates enamel erosion.
In this article, we’ll tell you about the causes of tooth discoloration and methods for treating it and restoring the natural color of teeth.
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
- Genetic Factor: Tooth yellowing may be a result of a genetic factor in family genes (meaning that yellow tooth color is a natural tooth color).
- Thin Enamel Layer: One of the reasons for tooth discoloration may be thinning enamel layer, the outer layer of the tooth, exposing dentin which turns yellow.
- Smoking: Smoking changes the color of teeth, leaving yellow and brown stains, especially on the front incisor teeth.
- Coffee and Tea Consumption: Excessive consumption of certain beverages like coffee, tea, and soda can cause tooth staining and gradual decay.
- Side Effects of Some Medications: Antibiotics and certain types of medications can cause tooth discoloration.
- Bruxism (Teeth Grinding): Teeth grinding, which is usually involuntary, can lead to enamel erosion and thus may be one of the causes of tooth yellowing.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: The most common cause of tooth discoloration is neglecting oral hygiene. Teeth should be cleaned daily after each meal and before bed, using a toothbrush and dental floss, and using miswak.
Prevention of Tooth Discoloration
- Avoiding all forms of smoking: Smoking affects the color of teeth. (Hookah smoking, cigarette smoking, and tobacco smoking).
- Regular Tooth Brushing: Teeth should be cleaned with a suitable toothbrush and toothpaste for at least two minutes at least twice a day, especially after consuming food and beverages that cause stains like tea and coffee.
- Using Whitening Mouthwashes: Whitening mouthwashes containing whitening agents can be used to help remove surface stains.
- Avoiding Colored Drinks and Foods: Limiting the consumption of beverages and foods that may cause tooth discoloration like coffee, tea, and soda.
- Using Dental Floss: Regular use of dental floss helps to remove food deposits and plaque between teeth.
- Maintaining Regular Dental Cleanings: Regular visits to the dentist are essential for regular cleanings and check-ups to ensure the health of teeth and gums.
Treatment for Tooth Discoloration
There are several ways to treat tooth discoloration at home, including:
- Regular Brushing: Teeth should be brushed regularly with a suitable toothbrush and toothpaste for at least two minutes at least twice a day, especially after consuming food and beverages that cause stains like tea and coffee.
- Using Whitening Mouthwashes: Whitening mouthwashes containing whitening agents can be used to help remove surface stains.
- Avoiding Colored Drinks and Foods: Limiting the consumption of beverages and foods that may cause tooth discoloration like coffee, tea, and soda.
- Using Dental Floss: Regular use of dental floss helps to remove food deposits and plaque between teeth.
- Maintaining Regular Dental Cleanings: Regular visits to the dentist are essential for regular cleanings and check-ups to ensure the health of teeth and gums.
