Eating is all fun and games until people notice their teeth getting stained. Often caused by tannins from the food we eat, stained teeth are common signs of the need to care for our oral health. However, no matter how common stained teeth are, some people may still have questions about them that need some answers. Here are the FAQs about stained teeth often asked by patients.

1. What is the Usual Teeth Color

It’s a common fact that everyone has different colored teeth. From yellow to dark brown, there’s a wide range of shades to choose from. The usual color of a person’s teeth is white, which can be a little yellow.

When it comes to stained teeth, the usual color is brownish, typically caused by tannins. Food and drinks rich in tannins may cause stained teeth, especially when it comes to beverages. Teas, coffee, and red wine are usually the biggest culprits for stains on teeth.

2. What is Intrinsic Discoloration?

Intrinsic discoloration is normal for people and is usually caused by natural causes like aging. Aging may cause the gums to recede and expose the roots of the teeth. Natural causes result in a darkening of the teeth as a part of the natural aging process.

Intrinsic discoloration is a term that refers to the color of teeth before the formation of their enamel. The discoloration may be due to a person’s genetic makeup, so it is often present for all of their life.

3. What is Extrinsic Discoloration?

External factors cause extrinsic discoloration, usually due to the food we eat. They get stuck on our teeth and stain them, causing the teeth to appear darker than usual. However, the color of the teeth does not have any long-term effects on the structure of the teeth, as it usually wears off when the food is gone from the mouth.

4. What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

The main reason that causes discoloration of teeth is tannins, which are found in beverages such as coffee and tea. Also, certain foods and drinks can cause discoloration to the teeth. These beverages can be red wine, berries, berries, and spices.

Later, if teeth are not cleaned enough, the color of the teeth will become darker. It usually happens over time or when there is a lot of intake of beverages and food that causes tooth staining.

5. How to Whiten Teeth?

There’s no need to worry about stained teeth since you can do things to stop them from getting worse. You can also take care of your teeth to prevent discoloration from happening in the first place. Here are some tips for you.

Brushing and flossing regularly will help you remove the food particles that may cause discoloration of your teeth. Make sure to brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice a day. It also helps to quit smoking as it is not suitable for your oral health and may cause bad breath. Smokers tend to have stained teeth because of the tobacco stains and the tar that gets stuck on the teeth.

Conclusion

Stained teeth are unsightly and may cause bad breath since the food particles get stuck on the teeth. Making good oral health a priority is crucial for good oral health. Having your teeth checked regularly will also help you avoid stained teeth.

It’s important to know that discoloration is normal, but if you notice, there’s a thing or two you can do to prevent it. For example, you can switch to a milder type of tea to not stain your teeth. If you’re curious to know more, ask your dentist.

Cosmetic Dentistry of Murfreesboro offers a full-service dentist for all clients. Our goal is to provide the best dentist near you, hoping to address even the most common dental problems everyone might have. Book an appointment for a consultation today on our website and enjoy a perfect smile tomorrow.