So your teeth are discolored, and you are embarrassed by your smile. Well, you’re not alone. Many Americans spend more than a million dollars yearly on whitening products to brighten their smiles. However, tooth discoloration is more than an aesthetic issue; it could significantly affect the health of your teeth and gums. So, wouldn’t that be better if you could understand what causes tooth discoloration and possible steps to prevent them? Indeed insightful, isn’t it? That’s why our dentist specializing in teeth whitening abq nm has shared some of the most common causes of tooth discoloration and steps to prevent them in this blog. Keep reading to explore the causes and prevention.

So What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Medications

Medications are one of the most common causes of tooth discoloration. Antibiotics, antihistamines, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medications can all cause teeth to become discolored. The good news is that this type of discoloration is usually reversible. If you are taking any medications that might be causing your teeth to become discolored, talk to your dentist or doctor about switching to a different medication.

Fluoride in Water

Too much fluoride can cause a condition called fluorosis, which results in white spots or streaks on the teeth. It’s important to brush your teeth with a fluoride toothpaste and drink plenty of water to prevent this. If you live in an area with high levels of fluoride in the water, you may need to use a special filter.

Darkly Colored Foods

We all know that eating lots of sugary and starchy foods can cause cavities, but did you know that these foods can also cause tooth discoloration? When these foods are combined with bacteria in your mouth, they can create a sticky film called plaque. Plaque can not only cause cavities, but it can also lead to tooth discoloration. To prevent this, be sure to brush your teeth after eating darkly colored foods. You may also want to consider teeth whitening near me.

Tobacco Use

Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of tooth discoloration. The nicotine and tar in tobacco can cause stains on your teeth, and smoking also decreases the production of saliva, which helps protect your teeth from bacteria. If you smoke, quitting is the best way to prevent tooth discoloration. A professional teeth whitening Albuquerque can help remove the stains from your teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Poor oral habits can lead to tooth discoloration due to bacteria called plaque. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on your teeth, and if it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar. Not only is tartar unsightly, it can also lead to gum disease. To remove plaque, brush your teeth twice a day with a toothpaste that contains fluoride. You should also floss daily to remove plaque from between your teeth.

Some teeth stains can be reversed through a professional teeth whitening Albuquerque procedure, while others can’t be. However, your dentist is the right person determine the best treatment option to remove or hide the stains. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for a consultation.