Cosmetic Dentistry Directory Blog
Cosmetic Dentistry Directory
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is an issue impacting many people. Over
time, your teeth will likely dull and become stained due to a variety of
factors. Some of the most common include:
- Foods/drinks – Tea, coffee, colas, red wine, and certain fruits and vegetables are the most common staining agents you consume.
- Smoking – Tobacco is a common staining agent for teeth, regardless of whether you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco.
- Poor dental hygiene – A failure to brush and floss regularly can cause plaque to build up on your teeth, resulting in discoloration.
- Genetics – Some people are predisposed to having dull, yellow teeth.
- Age – As you get older, your tooth enamel (outer layer of your teeth) wears away, resulting in your teeth having a yellowish color.
- Disease – Certain diseases, as well as the treatments for certain conditions, may cause your teeth to become stained.
- Medications – Certain medications, particularly antibiotics containing tetracycline and doxycycline, can stain your teeth.
If you would like to brighten discolored teeth, you may want
to consider tooth
whitening. However, keep in mind that not all whitening systems are created
equal. Professional tooth whitening, whether performed in your cosmetic dentist’s
office or using take-home
kits, will achieve safer, more effective results than over-the-counter
tooth whitening products.
In certain situations, such as with chemically-stained
teeth, tooth whitening may not achieve your desired results. In these cases, porcelain
veneers may be the ideal option to help you achieve your goals.
Please contact us
today to find a qualified cosmetic dentist in your area.
posted by Andrew at 11:40 AM
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