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When you look in the mirror, you likely hope to see a bright, white smile in the reflection. Unfortunately, for many people, this isn’t a reality. Staining is one of the most common issues that can plague your teeth and could be the result of numerous causes.
Not only is staining unsightly, but it can also be a sign of oral health issues. Therefore, it’s important to address the underlying causes of the discoloration and take steps to correct the lingering effects right away.
Addressing Stain Teeth
What Causes My Teeth to Become Stained?
- Your teeth can become stained due to oral health issues or lifestyle choices. These can include:
- Antibiotics: Taking certain antibiotics as a child can lead to staining as an adult.
- Aging: As you get older, your teeth can weaken, allowing for staining or discoloration.
- Food and Drink: Items such as coffee, red wine, and red sauces can cause staining.
- Smoking: Using tobacco products can leave your teeth very discolored.
What Do Different Colors of Staining Indicate?
The color of the staining on your teeth can often indicate specific issues. Common discoloration includes:
White
While most people long to have a white smile, small white spots on your teeth are not a good sign. This can indicate you are using too much fluoride, have calcium buildup on your teeth, or have the beginnings of a cavity.
Yellow
Teeth can become yellow due to poor oral hygiene, the use of tobacco products or certain medications, or chronic dry mouth.
Brown
Similar to yellow discoloration, brown staining can be caused by using tobacco products or drinking dark-colored beverages as well as certain oral health issues, such as tooth decay or tartar buildup.
Black
Black stains on your teeth are typically a sign of advanced tooth decay.
How to Fix Stained Teeth
Limit Certain Food and Drinks
If you believe the stains are the result of certain foods or drinks, try to limit how often you ingest these items or aim to quickly brush your teeth after having them.
Quit Smoking
Smoking and using other tobacco products is linked to numerous serious health issues, such as oral and lung cancers. While quitting this habit can be very difficult, doing so offers very strong benefits for your overall and oral health — including reducing your risks for chronic illnesses, such as cancers and periodontal disease, as well as reducing the amount of staining on your teeth.
Consult with Your Dentist
If the stains seem to be more than superficially on your teeth, speak to your dentist about what can be done to improve them. They may suggest:
- Modifications to your oral care routine
- Filling cavities that are causing the staining
- Addressing tartar and plaque buildup
- Cosmetic procedures, such as crowns, bonding, or veneers
- At-home or in-office whitening treatments
- Ensuring you’re keeping up cleanings and exams at least twice a year
Dentists in New York and New Jersey
If you’re struggling with stains and discoloration on your teeth, the dentists at ProHEALTH Dental are here to help. We utilize specialized instruments to reach deep and around the tooth to remove plaque and prevent and fix cavities.
Call today at (855) 750-5011 or contact us online for more information about our general dentistry services.