5 Things That Can Cause Tooth Discolouration

As many as 40% of British people are unhappy with their teeth. The reason? The size, shape, and colour of their teeth. While crooked teeth can be fixed through orthodontic treatments, it can be surprisingly difficult to keep our teeth pearly white throughout our lives.

There are treatments available for tooth discolouration - teeth whitening, for example - but, in order to tackle the problem, it often helps to find out what causes it in the first place. From smoking to drinking fruit juice, here are some of the main things that can cause tooth discolouration.

Pigmented food and drinks

Foods and drinks that have tannins or dark pigments - especially those of a sticky consistency - can significantly alter the colour of your teeth over time. They can stain them yellow, brown, red, or even purple.

Pigmented foods and drinks that are likely to stain your teeth if consumed regularly include:

●     Beets

●     Curry spices or pastes

●     Soy sauce

●     Balsamic vinegar

●     Tomato pasta sauce

●     Red wine

●     Fruits like blackberries and blueberries

●     Tea and coffee

●     Red wine

Ageing

While some of the causes of tooth discolouration can be avoided, unfortunately, the side effects of ageing cannot. We may be able to offset them with cosmetic treatments but, eventually, they are likely to catch up with us. Yellowing teeth are an inevitable part of the ageing process, as enamel begins to fade over time. It’s always important to look after your teeth, but this is especially true in old age.

Poor oral hygiene

If you don’t brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day as recommended, your smile may lose its brightness. You should also floss and rinse with mouthwash in order to manage plaque build-up and keep those teeth sparkly white. While you need to look after your dental hygiene with quality products, it’s also worth being aware of excessive fluoride exposure. Whilst fluoride is useful in preventing tooth decay, it should only be used in moderation. Overexposure can cause fluorosis, which leads to more deep-rooted yellowing. It’s important to check the fluoride level of your toothpaste and stay within the recommended range for your age group.

Acidic foods and drinks

Acidic foods and drinks like fruit juice, citrus fruits, tomato sauce, and fizzy soft drinks can wear away the enamel of your teeth, which can cause any discolouration under the surface of your teeth to show through. They can also cause your teeth to become more porous and therefore more susceptible to future staining.

Smoking

One of the main causes of yellowing teeth is smoking, due to the stains caused by the tar and nicotine found in tobacco products. It’s easy to spot a lifelong smoker - all you have to do is some for their yellow, or sometimes even brown, teeth and yellowing fingers. They may also be missing a few teeth, as smoking weakens the gums.

If you’re looking for a reliable, professional solution to your tooth discolouration problem, or you simply want some advice, look no further than Acorn Dental Health. We are committed to ensuring that your smile is not only bright and healthy but is free from pain and discomfort too. Get in touch today to find out how we can help you get your pearly white smile back.