Dental discoloration may be caused by poor dental hygiene, and it is often a symptom of tooth decay. The surface of the teeth is stained by dark-yellow/brown patches, and the condition may be caused by one of the following:
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Nicotine
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Nicotine is found in tobacco products and is one of the most common causes of stained teeth. If you smoke cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco frequently, you’ll probably suffer from dental discoloration in the future. The same goes for people that chew tobacco regularly.
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Plaque/Tartar
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While brushing is effective for cleaning out plaque, it can’t remove all the plaque deposits on your teeth. If plaque stays on the teeth for long, it hardens after some time. Hardened plaque is called tartar and it causes yellow/brown stains close to the gum line.
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Foods/beverages
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Regular consumption of dark foods and beverages e.g. tea, coffee, blackberries, red wine, etc. causes the teeth to get darker. Whenever you eat any of the above, rinse your mouth immediately after, and 30 minutes after that, brush your teeth.
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Root canal
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Dental discoloration is sometimes caused by dead pulp. When the pulp in a tooth dies, the root darkens, causing the tooth to appear dark. The only solution here is a root canal procedure.
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Tooth decay
If tooth enamel starts to break down, the teeth become susceptible to the bacteria in plaque. Without dental care, this may result in tooth decay, and one of the symptoms of decay is brown teeth.
If you notice any stains around your teeth, talk to a dentist immediately. Conversely, a good way to prevent discoloration is to have your teeth cleaned professionally every year.
Residents of Texas can visit Pearl Shine Dental Clinic in Houston for all their dental care needs. Call 281-477-7200 to make an appointment.