Discolored teeth can be due to several reasons. With age, they are common. Sometimes it may originate deep in the tooth root. Discoloration can also occur in a tooth that has a root canal earlier. Although some discoloration to the tooth may be permanent, several treatment options are available depending on the cause. One of the treatments is in-office teeth whitening. But not everyone is a suitable bleaching candidate.
Common Causes of Discolored Tooth
Below are the common causes of tooth discoloration:
Tobacco Use
Tobacco products contain tar and nicotine that can cause yellow stains on the teeth, mainly on getting in touch with oxygen. With time, these stains turn brown, which is tough to eliminate. Nicotine stains occur deep into the tooth enamel and penetrate the dentin.
The consumption of tobacco also results in gum disease, bad breath, and other oral health issues. They all damage the aesthetic appearance. To fight tooth discoloration from tobacco consumption, the dentist Portland OR can tailor at-home teeth whitening solutions.
Genes
Few individuals have thick or bright tooth enamel genetically than others. It means a few genetic disorders, including amelogenesis imperfecta and dentinogenesis imperfecta affect tooth enamel.
Trauma
A mishap or fall can lead to tooth pulp damage and gray or black tooth. Moreover, internal tooth bleeding can result in intrinsic tooth discoloration. Trauma to the tooth can also interfere with the teeth’ formation.
Few Drinks and Foods
Certain beverages and foods can shift into the outer layers of the tooth structure and result in staining. These include coffee, red wine, chocolate, coffee, tea, red sauces, etc. As per one research, the risk of tooth discoloration is higher in smokers than non-smokers.
Furthermore, an acidic environment in the mouth can make the tooth’s enamel discolored. Remember, foods that could stain clothes can also stain your teeth.
Environment
Another cause of tooth coloration is the excess fluoride from environmental sources or more use of fluoride toothpaste, supplements, and other fluoride applications.
Medicines
A few antibiotics, antipsychotics, antihistamines, and other drugs can result in tooth discoloration when given to kids before 8 years.
Age
With age, our teeth turn yellow naturally. It is mainly due to intrinsic and extrinsic discoloration. Extrinsic factors that can stain your teeth with time slowly include consuming certain foods or smoking. Furthermore, with time the dental enamel gets thin, which makes the dentin layer more visible.
Dental Materials
Amalgam dental restorations, mainly those containing silver sulfide causes black grayish shade to the tooth.
Few Diseases
Few diseases that significantly affect dentin and enamel can cause discolored teeth. Few infections during pregnancy can also result in discolored teeth in their babies. Chemotherapy, neck and head radiation can also be the culprit.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Another contributor to tooth discoloration is bad dental hygiene. Not flossing and brushing regularly let the tiny food bits and bacteria cling to the teeth and around the mouth. It results in staining on the tooth.
Besides frequent flossing and brushing, see the Portland dentist for check-ups and professional cleaning. The professional will eliminate the bacterial accumulation before it results in cavities, gum diseases, and other oral health problems.
Get Teeth Whitening Near You to Combat Tooth Discoloration
In-office professional teeth whitening at Pham Dental Care uses carbamide or hydrogen peroxide to give a sparkling white smile. The treatment works on extrinsic stains by breaking them and eradicating them from the teeth. It takes nearly one hour to complete. Also, the effects of in-office whitening typically stay for longer than other methods for whitening smiles.
Getting teeth bleached at the dental office may take one or multiple visits. During in-office teeth bleaching, the professional paints bleaching solution onto the teeth with guards. Then, the local dentist activates the whitening agent. You will notice a smile 8 shades whiter in nearly one hour.
The dentist also provides at-home whitening treatment. It needs 30 to 60 minutes of daily treatment for nearly 6 weeks. The dentist creates a tailored whitening tray to use at home with teeth whitening gel. There are advantages and disadvantages to both in-office and at-home bleaching. The professional will help you pick the most appropriate cosmetic dentistry option according to your case.