Typical Reasons for Discolored Teeth
Are your teeth not as white as they once were? Are you concerned about the cause? There are many different reasons why teeth may become discolored, and there are some that could be due to medical issues. In this blog post, we'll break down some of the most common reasons why your teeth may not be as white as they could be.
To begin with, not everyone's teeth are the same. The color of your teeth is determined by your genetics, and some people just naturally have naturally whiter teeth than others.
Lifestyle choices can play an important role as well. Our teeth can become stained by the food we eat and the beverages we drink. Coffee, tea, and red wine, for instance, have been known to stain teeth. Smoking and using chewing tobacco can cause teeth to become yellowed and stained as well. Good oral hygiene is important for mitigating these factors, and poor home care can cause stains and plaque to build up and hurt the appearance of your teeth.
Health-wise, teeth can take on a more yellow appearance simply due to age. Throughout our lives, the hard enamel layer of our teeth is gradually worn down, allowing more of the yellow dentin layer beneath to show through. Infections and mouth injuries can result in teeth taking on a gray color, indicating an underlying problem. There are also some medications, such as antibiotics, that can cause teeth to become discolored with prolonged use.
A good rule of thumb is to check with Dr. Lechner if you notice any change in the appearance of your teeth that concerns you. For those who wish to improve the appearance of their teeth,
the American College of Prosthodontists recommends a professional teeth whitening or porcelain veneers for those who want whiter teeth. The best option can depend on the reason your teeth are discolored to begin with, so make sure to
get in touch with our office to schedule a consultation to find the best course of treatment for your specific needs.