Understanding Why Teeth Become Discolored and How In-Office Whitening Can Restore Brightness
In today’s world, several factors contribute to discolored teeth, including caffeine, tobacco use, and even medication. Tooth discoloration will happen naturally, even if you avoid the common causes, but there are several things you can do to get your white, healthy smile back. Here is more information on common ways teeth become discolored:
- Foods and Drinks: Coffees, teas, colas, and wines can stain teeth over time.
- Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco will also stain the enamel of your teeth.
- Poor Dental Hygiene: In order to keep your teeth healthy and white, you need to practice good dental hygiene, including brushing and flossing to remove any leftover stains from food and drinks.
- Genetics: You genetics have a major influence how light or dark the enamel is on your teeth.
- Medications: Certain medications, including tetracycline and doxycycline, are known to discolor teeth, especially when given to children whose teeth are still forming. Certain mouth rinses can also cause discoloration, particularly if they contain chlorhexidine. Antihistamines, like Benadryl, and some antipsychotic drugs may also cause discoloration. If in doubt, contact your doctor for advice before taking medication or giving any to your child.
- Aging: Age takes its natural toll on the body, and your teeth are no exception. Over time, your enamel may wear down to expose the natural color of your teeth.
- Disease: Certain diseases can affect the enamel of your teeth. The treatment for some diseases, including head and neck cancer and accompanying radiation, also has an effect on the color of your teeth.
If the color of your teeth has you feeling self-conscious and you’re ready to make a change to improve the brightness of your teeth, then a quick 40-minute in-office whitening treatment can whiten your teeth by as much as three to five shades. Call Southfield Family Dental Center at (248) 327-0313 to schedule an appointment for whitening. Dr. Levi, Dr. Oleg, and the rest of our team of dentists are ready to help improve the look of your smile with a variety of cosmetic treatments. We also offer orthodontic services at our Southfield Orthodontic Specialists Center.
