Everyone wishes to have a healthy white smile. There are some things we cannot control when we are young, like age or accidents that may disturb the tooth’s enamel development. Teeth stains can occur for various reasons like oral hygiene, food, and drink choices, medication, etc. 

That is why discussing plans for whitening your teeth with Palm Harbor, FL dentist is important. They can tell you if lifestyle factors like drinking coffee or any other dental health issues are causing your tooth stains. A prompt check-up by a doctor will ensure your dental health is protected. 

Everything you need to know about tooth stains

Tooth stains occur due to changes in the tooth material, surface stains, or a combination of both. There are mainly three types of tooth stains.

1. Intrinsic stains

In intrinsic staining, the staining is caused below the tooth surface. It occurs when the particles that cause the stain work through the tooth exterior. Excessive use of fluoride toothpaste is also associated with intrinsic. An intrinsic tooth stain is not easy for children. 

2. Extrinsic stains

The extrinsic stain is staining on the tooth surface. It occurs when staining particles like pigmented residue from drinks or food form in the tooth enamel’s protein film. Extrinsic stains on teeth are caused mainly due to tobacco use or regularly consuming tea and coffee, cola drinks, or wine. Such tooth stains respond better to regular dental cleaning and brushing with whitening toothpaste. 

3. Age-related tooth stains

Age-related tooth stains combine both intrinsic and extrinsic and intrinsic tooth discoloration. Because of the teeth’s core tissue, teeth discolor with age, or dentin, which grows yellow naturally over time. As we grow, the enamel covering the tooth becomes thinner, allowing the dentist to show a smile. 

Causes

1. Food and drinks

Red wine, or even fruits and vegetables, tea, coffee, or dark sodas, are proven to cause discolored teeth. 

2. Oral care

Poor oral hygiene, like inadequate flossing and brushing, can lead to tooth discoloration. 

3. Medical treatments

Some medications can contribute to tooth stains, like high blood pressure medications, antipsychotic drugs, antihistamines, and chemotherapy can cause teeth stains. 

4. Disease or trauma

Any disease, illness, or trauma can affect enamel development in children, while teeth develop and can cause teeth discoloration. Trauma to adult teeth can also lead to discolored teeth. Some diseases and disease treatments can lead to teeth discoloration. Chemotherapy and radiation can discolor teeth.