Mission Viejo, CA, dental questions: What causes the discoloration of teeth?

Nothing can light up a room as quickly as a brilliant smile. For many people who suffer the embarrassment of dark, yellowed, brownish, or unevenly colored teeth, this dazzling smile can seem perpetually elusive. Fortunately, there are a number of solutions available, from teeth bleaching to porcelain veneers. However, if you wish to avoid or minimize discoloration, you probably want to know what causes it.

The possible causes of tooth discoloration include:

• Food and beverages - This is the most common type of stain, and it is easily remedied with simple teeth bleaching. Dark colored substances, especially those high in acid, are the most common problems. This includes red wine, coffee, black tea, berries, and cola.
  
  
• Tobacco - Smoking, as well as smokeless tobacco products, can stain your teeth as well as endangering your oral and overall health.
  
  
• Poor hygiene - The importance of regular brushing, flossing, and dental care cannot be overstated. Keeping teeth clean is essential, not only for their health, but also for their appearance.
  
  
• Health issues - Certain diseases, infections, or oral health problems can have a negative impact on the tooth enamel, including causing discoloration.
  
  
• Medication - Radiation therapy, as well as certain blood pressure medications or antihistamines can darken teeth. Some antibiotics, especially tetracycline, can cause dark inclusions in the developing enamel if given to very young children.
  
  
• Worn enamel - Over time, tooth enamel becomes thinner and more transparent, allowing the darker dentin layer to show through.
  
  
• Oral injury - Trauma, especially a direct impact to the mouth area, can damage the soft tissue (dental pulp) inside of a tooth. This is possible even if there is no visible damage to the outside of the tooth. Dental pulp injury can darken the center of a tooth, which affects its overall appearance due to the slight transparency of overlying layers.
  
  
• Genetics - In some cases, a person may simply have a naturally dark appearance.

Teeth whitening can effectively combat most causes of discoloration. For permanent stains or darkness that does not respond to bleaching, porcelain veneers may be a better option. To find out more about the best solution for you, call our Mission Viejo office at 949-427-2096 and schedule a consultation.