What Causes Teeth Staining?

A bright smile is often seen as a sign of health and vitality, but many people suffer from teeth staining and discoloration. Even if you adhere to a strong and regular oral hygiene regimen, common habits and factors can lead to tooth stains. Potential causes include: 

• Food and Drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, and some fruits and vegetables (like berries and beets) contain intense color pigments that attach to the white outer part of your teeth, contributing to teeth staining. 

• Tobacco Use: Both smoking and chewing tobacco can result in significant yellowing of the teeth due to the tar and nicotine they contain. 

• Age: As you age, the outer enamel layer of your teeth gets thinner, allowing the naturally yellow dentin to show through. 

• Trauma: Injuries to the mouth can disrupt enamel formation in young children whose teeth are still developing. For adults, a trauma to the teeth can cause discoloration due to damage to the inner layers. 

• Medications: Certain medications can cause tooth darkening. Young children exposed to antibiotics like tetracycline and doxycycline during teeth formation may experience discoloration later in life. 

These factors can lead to stains on the teeth and self-consciousness about smile aesthetics. Fortunately, cosmetic dental treatment options available from our dentists at Pomerado Cosmetic Dentistry offer effective solutions for many individuals. Two common procedures include:  

Teeth Whitening 

Teeth whitening, one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry options, involves the application of a bleaching agent to break up stains and brighten your smile. At Pomerado Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer ZOOM!® and Sinsational Smile® in-office treatments. Additionally, we offer at-home kits to help you achieve a brighter smile from the comfort of your own home. 

Porcelain Veneers 

For deeper stains, porcelain veneers can be an excellent option. Bonded to the front and sides of a tooth, veneers offer a durable enhancement that mimics the appearance of natural teeth and provides a lighter shade. Porcelain veneers can also be effective for other aesthetic concerns, including chips, gaps, and even mild misalignment. 

For more information about teeth whitening and porcelain veneers, or to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists, please contact our office.