Causes of Tooth Discoloration and Dental Stains

Tooth discoloration falls into two categories the first is extrinsic and this means the discoloration is caused by outside causes such as smoking or drinking coffee. The other is intrinsic, this means that the discoloration is caused by internal issues with your teeth such as defects in the enamel caused by accidents, such as blows to the teeth.

Some people do not create enough saliva and this can cause tooth discoloration. Some medications can cause lack of saliva, also some diseases, infections, and radiation applied to the head and neck region can all be causes of low saliva output.

Not taking proper care of your teeth is a main cause for tooth discoloration improper brushing or not brushing enough allows tartar and plaque to build up along with food particles. Many things that we ingest, and put in our mouths cause tooth discoloration. Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and some medications can all cause tooth discoloration. As a child if you suffer any damage to your teeth, before they were done forming can cause discoloration of your teeth.

Many people find it hard to believe but too much fluoride can cause tooth discoloration. All toothpaste, the water supply of most cities, and towns, and some vitamins have fluoride in them, and many of us are getting more than the recommended amount.

Tooth discoloration can be caused by lack of nutrition, most of us do not eat properly, and should be taking a vitamin supplement, but we do not so we are missing key nutrients that our body needs. Your teeth will naturally darken, as you grow older. There are some exceptions to the rule, but modern teeth whitening processes can remove most tooth discoloration.

Consult with a dentist before you do any teeth whitening process, even if you are going to use an at home kit, see a dentist before you start the treatment. If the enamel of your teeth is damaged the chemical used to whiten teeth can do more damage than good.

For additional information on dental veneers and tooth whitening, it is important to visit a Boston cosmetic dentistry office to schedule a consultation and learn more.