What causes teeth to stain and discolor?

Sunday, June 18, 2006

Below is a list of some of the common causes of tooth stain and tooth discoloration. When we understand what causes teeth to become stained or discolored, we can then prevent, reduce the amount of staining and discoloration, as well as treat this common dental problem.

Poor dental hygiene
If you do not take good care of your teeth, brushing and flossing at least 3 times a day, plaque builds-up on the teeth and under the gum tissue which then hardens into tartar. This can cause the teeth to have a yellowish appearance. Your tooth enamel is hard, but it is also porous, which means when certain foods, liquids, and tobacco are left on the teeth too long, they actually begin to sink into the inner layers of the teeth causing the teeth to appear stained and discolored. A good oral hygiene routine not only reduces the risk of tooth decay and other dental problems, but it also reduces the amount of liquids, food, and tobacco that can get absorbed into the teeth.

Excessive fluoride
Too much fluoride either from water, mouth rinses, toothpastes, fluoride supplements, or fluride applications can cause white spots to appear on the teeth.

Tobacco
Tobacco products, whether smoked or chewed, can cause an increase of staining in the teeth. Teeth are porous and they can absorb the nicotine contained in tobacco products. As a result, the teeth will discolor.

Foods and liquids
Many foods such as apples and potatoes, as well as wine, coffee, tea, and soft drinks can all cause your teeth to stain.

Medications
Antibiotics such as tetracycline and doxycycline are known to discolor teeth when given to children whose teeth are still developing. Chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride, which are found in many mouthwashes and rinses can cause the teeth to stain. Antihistamines (like Benadryl), antipsychotic drugs, and antihypertensive medications also cause teeth discoloration.

Diseases & Treatments
Diseases that affect the enamel and dentin, and head and neck radiation or chemotherapy, can cause the teeth to discolor. Pregnant women who experience some types of infection can cause discoloration in infants teeth by affecting the development of the tooth enamel.

Genetics
Some people are born with naturally thicker or whiter tooth enamel than others.

Aging
As we age, our teeth will naturally darken. Our tooth enamel begins to wear away over time, exposing the natural yellowish color of the dentin. (soft layer of the tooth)

Trauma
Whenever there is trauma to a tooth, such as bumping a tooth to hard or breaking the tooth, the nerve may begin to die in the tooth. The nerve supplies moisture and nutrients to the tooth. If the nerve dies, the tooth will discolor and become brittle because there is no moisture and nutrients supplied to the rest of the tooth. This can effect children as well as adults. Sometimes in children, a fall or some other form of trauma, can interupt the natural development of tooth enamel causing the tooth to appear discolored.

Dental restorations
Silver fillings,(Amalgams), or other metallic restorations may cause the tooth to stain over time.


How can I prevent my teeth from discoloring?
Maintaining good oral hygiene is one of the most beneficial ways to reduce staining and discoloration in teeth. If you are a smoker, or a coffee, tea, or soda pop drinker, than altering your intake or quiting all together will help lessen tooth discoloration and staining. Monitor your fluoride intake and make any necessary adjustments.

For things we have no control over, such as aging, genetics, trauma, medications, and health treatments, there are many solutions available to combat the effects of these conditions.

Consult with your dentist and hygienist, especially before using any over the counter whitening or bleaching products, to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.