Tooth discoloration can be described as when the teeth change their color for various reasons. They don’t appear as white or bright as they should be. Different dietary habits, oral hygiene, or medical conditions can cause this.
Types of teeth staining
There are three types of teeth staining that can be categorized as follows:
Extrinsic stains
Extrinsic stains affect the enamel, or the surface of the tooth. The outermost layer of the tooth, or enamel, is affected. However, it is not permanent and can be countered with regular brushing. Some of the most common causes of an extrinsic strain include:
- Food
- Tobacco
- Beverages
Intrinsic stains
Intrinsic stains on the teeth are discolorations that originate from within the tooth structure, especially affecting the dentin, which is the layer beneath the enamel. Unlike extrinsic stains, they are not caused by external factors and are more challenging to remove. They are the stains that require professional dental treatment.
Age-related
When a person starts aging, their enamel starts to wear away. This leads to a yellowish appearance of the teeth. Extrinsic and intrinsic factors may cause age-related discoloration.
Teeth Discoloration Causes
There are many reasons why teeth can be discolored. Described below are some of the reasons:
1. Food/drinks
Coffee, teas, colas, wines, soy sauce, and other dark colored foods and beverages play a significant role in teeth discoloration. They cause the outer layer of the tooth structure to be stained. Berries can also cause the teeth to get a yellowish tone.
2. Tobacco use
Tobacco, used in the form of a cigarette or chewed as it is, can also cause tooth discoloration. According to research, there was a higher prevalence of tooth discoloration among smokers than among non-smokers. The research also suggests a higher level of dissatisfaction with how they look because of their teeth.
Moreover, a cigarette is composed of nicotine and tar. When combined with the heat of the smoke, it can cause stubborn yellow stains on the teeth, which can be nearly impossible to counter with professional dental help.
3. Disease or medications
There are several diseases that affect the enamel and dentin, such as neck and head radiation or chemotherapy. Moreover, liver disease, eating disorders, celiac disease, or metabolic diseases are some of the diseases that lead to tooth discoloration. Calcium deficiency can also cause the teeth to appear discolored, often exhibiting white spots or a dull, yellow tone. This is because of the weakening of the tooth enamel due to calcium deficiency.
Some medicines, such as antihistamines and drugs for hypertension, can result in teeth discoloration. Also, adults who took tetracycline or doxycycline (antibiotics) during their childhood may also exhibit discoloration.
4. Genetics
There are some families that have naturally brighter and thicker enamel, while others don’t. The families who have naturally weak and light enamel are prone to tooth discoloration. Depending on the discoloration your family has already experienced, you can take precautionary measures to protect your teeth.
To Sum It Up
Tooth color can vary from person to person. Because of extrinsic and intrinsic factors, your teeth can be darkened or yellowed due to several underlying reasons. The important thing is to recognize the problem and address it as soon as possible.
Contact AK Dental for an affordable and convenient dental checkup. Call us at (512) 827-9958 and book your appointment for a dental checkup.