Causes for Tooth Discoloration

If your teeth have become stained and are looking a bit lackluster, you may be less generous with your smile. You've got several options for teeth whitening, but it's important that you first know what's causing your tooth discoloration.

Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains are caused by external factors that stain your enamel and may be difficult to remove through brushing and flossing alone. Coffee, wine, dark colored soft drinks, curries, tomato sauce, berries, and other foods and drinks are all likely to stain your teeth. A good rule of thumb is that if the substance can stain cloth, it may also discolor your teeth. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also cause deep yellow or brown stains on your teeth. Furthermore, as you age, your enamel may become dull and worn or porous, making it more vulnerable to staining.

Our Beverly Hills dentist can help you restore teeth that have been extrinsically stained to their original brightness through bleaching procedures. You may even qualify for procedures such as Zoom whitening, which uses a peroxide gel that’s activated by a special light to whiten your teeth by as much as eight shades in under an hour.

Intrinsic Stains

Stains that are located deep within the tooth and cannot be removed through bleaching alone are known as intrinsic stains. Medications: Certain medications, including tetracycline and certain antibiotics, and excessive use of fluoride during the development of adult teeth may lead to a distinctive and stubborn tooth stain.

Cosmetic dentistry options such as porcelain veneers or Lumineers, wafer thin shells that are applied directly over the tooth, can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth.

If you are interested in learning more about your options for whiter, brighter teeth, contact our cosmetic dentist in Beverly Hills today.

Source: Beverly Hills Dentist

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