Royal Dental
Anvi Staff answered 2 years ago
Tooth discoloration is abnormal tooth color, hue or translucency. External discoloration is accumulation of stains on the tooth surface. Internal discoloration is due to absorption of pigment particles into tooth structure. Sometimes there are several different co-existent factors responsible for discoloration.
There are several causes of tooth discoloration, including:
- Foods/drinks – Foods and drinks such as red wine, coffee, tea, and spaghetti sauce can all contribute to tooth staining. Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco all contain ingredients that will stick to the tiny pores in teeth and create a dark or brownish appearance.
- Tobacco use – The main cause of dental staining for smokers is nicotine and tar. The nicotine and tar from smoking seeps into the tooth’s enamel through tiny pores, leaving the teeth discolored. The tar adds a brown tinge to the teeth while the nicotine, when combined with oxygen, causes yellowing.
- Poor dental hygiene – Forgetting to brush and floss your teeth can cause plaque and food stains to build up. Skipping professional dental cleanings can also allow stains to start.
- Disease – Certain diseases can impact your tooth color, such as liver disease, calcium deficiency, eating disorders, and celiac disease.
- Medications – The antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline are known to discolor teeth when given to children whose teeth are still developing (before age 8). Mouth rinses and washes containing chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride can also stain teeth.
- Dental materials – Tooth discoloration after endodontic treatment is frequently attributed to drugs and filling materials. Durelon, Fuji ionomer, Fletcher’s cement, and zinc phosphate cement did not induce measurable tooth discoloration.
- Aging – tooth darkening occurs as a natural effect of aging. As we get older, the outer hard tissue covering our teeth, called enamel, wears away and exposes the darker dentin beneath it. This can cause our teeth to appear more gray or yellow rather than white.
- Genetics – there are two genetic conditions known for causing inherent staining in teeth. This includes dentinogenesis imperfecta and amelogenesis imperfecta.
Tooth discoloration can cause significant cosmetic problem especially when it affects the anterior teeth, which is usually exposed when a patient smiles. Anterior tooth discoloration is one of the most frequent reasons for seeking dental treatment.
Only natural enamel teeth can be whitened, and only then if the cause is something your dentist considers reversible.
Eating fibrous vegetables like celery, broccoli, onions, garlic, and carrots creates a crunching action that works to eliminate the presence of plaque buildup and naturally whiten teeth. Broccoli contains high amounts of iron, which naturally protects enamel, and carrots contain vitamin A.
Baking soda has natural whitening properties and has been shown to be effective at removing stains on your teeth and whitening your smile. That’s why it’s a popular ingredient in many commercial toothpastes.
Yet another great fruit that works also as a great teeth whitener is lemon. Lemons contain high acid level in the peel, which is a great whitener or even bleaching agent. You can use the lemon in two different ways; use the lemon peel to rub on your teeth or squirt the lemon juice on your teeth.
Most tooth whiteners use one of two chemical agents: carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide (the same stuff that will bleach your hair). When used in the mouth, carbamide peroxide breaks down into hydrogen peroxide and urea, with hydrogen peroxide being the active whitening ingredient.
Professional (in-office) teeth whitening is the fastest and most effective teeth whitening option. The procedure takes only up to an hour and can whiten your teeth two to eight shades lighter, with results that last up to five years.
One hydrogen peroxide-based product many dentists prefer is Opalescence Boost. The main ingredient in Opalescence Boost is a gel that contains roughly 38% hydrogen peroxide. This is what whitens and brightens the teeth.
Nidhi Staff answered 4 months ago
Tooth discoloration is a common dental issue that can affect the appearance of your teeth. It can be caused by various factors and can manifest as yellow, brown, or even gray discoloration. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the causes, prevention, and treatment options for tooth discoloration:
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Extrinsic Discoloration:
Food and Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits like blueberries can stain the teeth over time.
Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause yellow or brown stains on the teeth.
Poor Dental Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, causing discoloration.
Intrinsic Discoloration:
Medications: Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics taken during childhood, can cause teeth to become discolored.
Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development can lead to white or brown spots on the teeth.
Dental Trauma: Injury to a tooth can cause it to become discolored due to damage to the pulp or internal bleeding.
Tooth Decay and Restorations: Cavities and certain dental restorations, like amalgam fillings, can cause teeth to appear darker.
Age-Related Discoloration:
As you age, the outer layer of enamel wears away, revealing the natural yellow color of the dentin underneath.
Over time, stains from foods and drinks can accumulate, leading to more pronounced discoloration.
Prevention of Tooth Discoloration
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene:
Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles between teeth.
Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce plaque and bacteria.
Watch Your Diet:
Limit consumption of staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark berries.
Rinse your mouth with water after consuming these foods and drinks to minimize staining.
Avoid Tobacco Products:
Refrain from smoking or using other tobacco products to prevent staining and other oral health issues.
Regular Dental Visits:
Visit your dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups to remove surface stains and detect any underlying issues early.
Use a Straw:
When drinking staining beverages, use a straw to reduce contact with your teeth.
Treatment Options for Tooth Discoloration
Professional Dental Cleaning:
Regular professional cleanings by a dentist or dental hygienist can remove surface stains and tartar.
Whitening Toothpaste and Rinses:
Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste and rinses can help remove surface stains over time.
Whitening Strips and Gels:
OTC whitening strips and gels can be applied to the teeth to lighten extrinsic stains.
Professional Whitening Treatments:
In-Office Whitening: Dentists can perform professional whitening treatments using stronger bleaching agents for quicker and more dramatic results.
At-Home Whitening Kits: Dentists can provide custom-fitted trays and professional-grade whitening gel for use at home.
Dental Veneers and Bonding:
Veneers: Thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of the teeth to improve their appearance.
Bonding: Applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth to cover discoloration.
Microabrasion:
A procedure that removes a thin layer of enamel to eliminate superficial stains and discoloration.
Tooth discoloration can result from a variety of factors, but it can often be prevented with good oral hygiene practices, a mindful diet, and regular dental care. If discoloration occurs, there are numerous treatment options available ranging from simple at-home solutions to professional dental treatments. Consult with your dentist to determine the best approach for your specific situation and to maintain a bright, healthy smile.