Tooth discoloration is very common and has many different causes. There are simple ways to brighten your smile quickly and easily, depending on the cause of the discoloration. Remember, the best way to keep your smile sparkling is to take good care of it. For help finding a local dental professional, search for a dentist near you.
Common Causes of Discolored Teeth
While dentin, the hard, inner part of teeth, is responsible for the color of teeth as they age, stained enamel is the primary cause of discolored teeth. Possible reasons for discolored teeth include:
- Drinking tea, coffee or soda
- Tobacco use
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth erosion
- Natural aging
- Oral trauma
- Gum disease
- Daily use of certain medications
Treatment for Discolored Teeth
Treatment options to whiten discolored teeth can vary depending on the cause of the discoloration and may include:
- Proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day and floss them once a day to fight against discoloration. Schedule regular professional cleanings to remove plaque and calculus buildup.
- Bonding. A dental composite material is applied to the surface of the tooth, with final results blending naturally into the remainder of the surrounding tooth.
- Veneers. A strong layer of porcelain is placed over the affected tooth or teeth.
- In-office teeth whitening. One of the most common procedures in cosmetic dentistry. A quick and non-invasive treatment to enhance your smile.
- At-home teeth whitening. Either custom molded trays or prepacked trays can be purchased at the dentist office, for your convenience, but without lacking the results.
The best way to determine the right treatment for your discolored teeth is by making an appointment with your dentist. They can then review your discolored teeth, make an accurate diagnosis and give you their recommended treatment plan.
How to Prevent Teeth from Becoming Discolored
Good oral hygiene is essential in having a sparkling smile. Remember to brush twice a day to remove any stains from food and to remove plaque. Floss once a day to remove any buildup between your teeth. Having a professional cleaning by your dentist every 3-6 months will also greatly contribute to a clean sparkling smile. To brighten smiles in addition to good oral hygiene, talk to your dentist about professional teeth whitening.
Who Treats Discolored Teeth?
Your general dentist will treat any discolored teeth with the appropriate cosmetic treatment. Please contact us today with any questions on how to make your smile even more beautiful and sparkling.
To find a dental office near you, visit our locations page.