What Causes Teeth Discoloration?

posted in: Cosmetic Dentistry | 0

It is no secret that most people have always wanted to achieve a whiter and brighter smile. Having discolored teeth can be embarrassing and may affect a person’s day-to-day life. Tooth discoloration is brought by various factors, from the foods or drinks consumed down to certain habits.

before and after teeth whitening

Knowing what causes the teeth to discolor are essential in order to reduce and avoid the teeth from discoloration. Here are the following factors that can contribute to the discoloration of the teeth.

  • Foods and beverages

Certain foods and drinks consumed can cause teeth to stain. This includes coffee, teas, candies and sweets, colas, wines, sodas, berries, and more.

  • Poor oral hygiene

Proper oral hygiene must always be observed and practice, no matter what. Daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth with an antiseptic mouthwash is the best and the most basic way of removing plaque and stain-producing substances such as coffee and tobacco. Doing so can help prevent and reduce the discoloration of the teeth.

  • Smoking and tobacco use

Smoking is undeniably harmful to one’s health. Not only that, smoking and chewing tobacco also causes the teeth to stain, leaving a person an unattractive smile.

  • Age 

As people age, the outer layer of their teeth enamel gets worn out, showing the natural yellow color of dentin.

  • Disease 

There are certain diseases that can affect the enamel and dentin, which results in tooth discoloration. Several treatments used for certain conditions can also affect how the tooth looks. This includes treatment like head and neck radiation, and chemotherapy can cause the teeth to become discolored. Furthermore, pregnant mothers are vulnerable to certain infections, which may cause teeth discoloration in their infants by affecting the development of the enamel.

  • Medications 

Particular medications such as antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, and medicines used for high blood pressure can cause the teeth to stain or discolor. Also, antibiotics tetracycline and doxycycline are known to discolor teeth when given to children with developing teeth.

  • Environment 

Too much fluoride either from environmental sources or products such as toothpaste, fluoride supplements, and fluoride application, can cause the teeth to discolor.


Give your smile a boost! Book an appointment with Haake Family Dental and check out our service in Teeth Whitening in Overland Park, KS. We are located at 4601 W. 109th St. #222, Overland Park, KS 66211.