The tooth can be stained for multiple reasons either local or systemic factors. It is common nowadays. Many stains can be treated by a dentist or prevented by lifestyle changes and proper oral hygiene. This blog briefs you on the causes of tooth discoloration.

Stains can be categorized into extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related.

• Extrinsic stains affect only the outer layer (enamel) of teeth and can be easily
  prevented. It can be due to:
  • Food/ drinks: Some food-causing staining is red sauces, tea, coffee, and chocolate. Avoid having stain-causing food and beverages and you have won the battle.
  • Tobacco use: Cigarettes and chewing tobacco stain the outer layer of teeth and with time there is an abrasion of teeth. An acidic environment in your mouth can make your enamel more prone to discoloration.
  • Poor dental hygiene: If the teeth are not cleaned then bacteria in the mouth form plaque, overtime there is a permanent hard layer called calculus on the teeth. This hard layer can be cleaned by the dentist only.
  • Tooth decay: Plaque and sugar produces acids and weakens enamel. Weakened enamel is decayed causing black spots on the teeth along with pain. Book an appointment at Dr. Dalal’s office in Pleasanton for further assistance. Dr. Dalal will clean the cavity and restore it with dental materials.
• Intrinsic stains are due to birth-defects, medication or trauma. This kind of discoloration appears within the tooth. It can be at:
  • Younger age medication: Taking antibiotics such as tetracycline at a younger age causes permanent brown to yellow tooth discoloration. White spot on teeth is due to an overdose of fluoride in drinking water.
  • Accidental discoloration of teeth: Trauma to the tooth causes pulp damage and intrinsic brown discoloration of the tooth. To make the teeth pearly white, the dentist will remove dead pulp cells in the tooth and place a crown to restore the function and aesthetic.
• Aging: When you age, the enamel on your teeth begins to wear away, resulting in a yellow appearance of the teeth. Aging makes teeth more brittle, and yellowing can occur.

Treatment options vary depending on the type of stains and durations. Treatment options are

• In office treatment
• At home treatment
• Over-the-counter products

The prime benefit of whitening is to improve the appearance of the teeth, giving you a brighter and even smile. They also provide a natural tooth appearance restoring confidence.

Talk to your dentist before trying any teeth whitening products to ensure their safety and outcome. Some products can cause tooth sensitivity or gum irritation,

Consult an expert dentist, Dr. Dalal, who will help you in determining the safest cosmetic procedure to deliver the result the patient wants.