Tooth discoloration is a common problem that many people have to deal with. It can be caused by several different things. Due to this, the best teeth whitening treatment will depend on what is causing it. In this blog post, we are going to explore why teeth become discolored, how tooth discoloration affects your smile, and what you can do about it.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

Tooth discoloration can be caused by a variety of different things. Here are some of the most common causes:

Tobacco products

If you smoke or chew tobacco products then you may have noticed that over time your teeth become stained from tar and other chemicals in those products. In some cases, the staining can be very difficult to remove!

Drinking dark colored liquids

It is possible that if you drink a lot of red wine or other dark colored beverages then your teeth will become discolored over time. This type of tooth discoloration is often referred to as “wine stain,” and unfortunately it is the type of tooth discoloration that is often impossible to remove.

Tooth grinding

If you have a habit of grinding your teeth at night, then there are two problems that can result from this – worn enamel and tooth discoloration. As you grind your teeth, it will cause severe wear on the enamel surface which results in weakened teeth. Also, when you grind your teeth it will cause increased pressure on the dentin which can lead to tooth discoloration.

Excessive consumption of coffee

If you are someone who drinks a lot of coffee then this is another potential source of tooth discoloration. Coffee contains tannins that have the ability to stain your enamel. If you drink coffee, just remember to also drink plenty of water!

Trauma

If you have experienced some form of physical trauma (i.e. knocked out tooth) then it can cause discoloration over time. This type of tooth discoloration is often referred to as “injury stain.” It should be noted that this is often not the type of tooth discoloration that can be removed.

Tetracycline

If you take tetracycline antibiotic for extended periods of time when you are in your youth, then it can cause teeth stains in later life. Tetracycline has no effects on the adult teeth, but because the adult teeth are formed when you are young it can cause permanent staining.

Types of Teeth Discoloration

Teeth staining comes in many different forms and is caused by a wide range of factors. As we mentioned above, the best treatment will depend on the type of stain you are experiencing. Types of discoloration can include:

Extrinsic

An extrinsic tooth stain is staining on the surface of the tooth. It occurs when stain particles, such as pigmented residue from food or drink, build-up in the film of protein that covers the tooth enamel. Extrinsic tooth stains are typically caused by tobacco use or by regularly drinking coffee and tea, wine or cola drinks. This type of tooth stain responds well to regular dental cleaning and brushing the teeth with whitening toothpaste.

Intrinsic

An intrinsic tooth stain is staining below the surface of the tooth. It occurs when stain-causing particles work through the exterior of the tooth and accumulate within the tooth enamel. Excessive fluoride can also have a link with intrinsic stains, especially in children. Intrinsic tooth discoloration is trickier to remove, but not impossible. An intrinsic tooth stain may require professional bleaching treatment.

Age-Related

Age-related teeth stains combine the results of both intrinsic and extrinsic tooth discoloration. Because the core tissue of your teeth, the dentin, naturally yellows over time, teeth discolor with age. As we age, the enamel that covers the tooth becomes thinner, allowing the dentin to show through. 

Teeth Whitening Options

Over time, your teeth may become darkened and discolored because of various lifestyle factors. At Premier Dentistry of Eagle, we want to help you achieve your ideal smile. To do this, we proudly offer Zoom teeth whitening in Eagle, Idaho! This quick and professional in-office whitening treatment can brighten your smile up to 8 shades after just one treatment.

On average, patients complete 3 sessions of 15 minute whitening appointments. After you have completed your 3 15-minute whitening sessions, you can walk out of our office with a brighter smile. You will also receive instructions about how to care for your whiter smile at home, as well as a touch-up kit that will help your smile last longer.

Brighten Your Smile with Premier Dentistry of Eagle

To learn more about Zoom teeth whitening, we invite you to make an appointment with Premier Dentistry of Eagle today!