A bright smile is something the majority of people want to have. Unfortunately, tooth discoloration can occur for a variety of reasons. However, in many cases, this is preventable and treatable with the help of your dentist. While there are many factors that affect the darkening of your pearly whites, they fall into three major categories. Here is a guide to the different causes of tooth staining. 

What Are the Most Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration?

1. Extrinsic 

Extrinsic causes refer to stains that affect the surface of the tooth. This is typically caused by food, beverages, and tobacco. Dark sauces, red wine, tea, coffee, and chocolate can cause teeth to turn a more yellowish hue, while foods like blueberries, blackberries, and pomegranates can make your teeth appear more brown over time. Additionally, tobacco from cigarettes or chewing products is notorious for casting a brown pigment. These types of surface stains are the most dramatically affected by whitening treatments. 

2. Intrinsic 

An intrinsic stain occurs when the discoloration is present inside the tooth. These types of stains are the most resistant to whitening treatments and can be a result of certain medication, tooth trauma, poor oral hygiene, and too much fluoride. Medications for children, like tetracycline or doxycycline, or adult medications to combat antihistamines or high blood pressure can cause permanent yellowish discoloration. Poor dental hygiene, decay, and cavities can also make teeth yellow, brown, and even black. 

3. Age 

As you age, the enamel on your teeth wears away and they become more brittle. This results in an increase in dentin exposure, which is yellow in appearance. However, age is not a factor in whether or not someone can undergo professional whitening treatment. Talk to your dentist about any considerations you should make to protect your oral health on your journey to a whiter smile. 

If you are looking for a quality dentist in a warm and welcoming environment, look no further than Dr. Richard R. Miller Jr., DDS. This expert dentist and his skilled team provide residents across Fairmount, GA, with cutting-edge dental technology through a wide variety of dental services. Whether you need a routine check-up or an advanced dental procedure, their state-of-the-art facility is equipped to provide the best possible care. Whether you are visiting the office for restorative or cosmetic procedures, every patient receives their own custom treatment plan and compassionate care. Contact the Summerville office at (706) 857-4741 or the Fairmount office at (706) 337-3347 or visit them online to learn more about their services.