Ever look at a photo of yourself from only a few years ago and ask yourself, “Huh, were my teeth a bit brighter back then?” We definitely have.
Coffee and red wine usually get the blame for teeth discoloration, but several other causes may share more of the blame.
Common Reasons for Tooth Discoloration:
• Spotty Dental Routine – We might be a little biased at Las Vegas Dentistry, but if you don’t brush and floss regularly, plaque can harden into tartar, leaving a yellow-brown color on your teeth near your gums.
• Diet – Some of the common foods we hold dearest to our heart; like Monday morning coffee or a crisp apple on a sunny day — can stain our teeth. Besides coffee and red wine, a few of the top offenders include soda, tea, tomato and soy sauces, dark juices, berries, grapes, and even white wine.
• Tobacco Use – Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause a slew of health issues, although it should be the least worrisome, tobacco use does cause yellow teeth. But since we’re talking about teeth discoloration, one of the most common aesthetic complaints among tobacco users is yellow teeth.
• Enamel Decay – Enamel is that hard clear shell that protects the inside of your tooth. But if it decays or doesn’t fully develop, you may see a variety of stains and changes, including pits, white spots, or yellow-brown streaks. If you suspect decay, schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
What Helps Prevent Stains
We might sound like a broken record, but generally, the one great way to prevent teeth discoloration is to take exquisite care of your teeth and your health. Here are some of our favorite measures you can take right away to keep your teeth bright:
• Brush after eating or drinking
• Floss daily
• Take a pass on the sugary foods and drinks
• Add calcium to your diet
• Nix any tobacco use
Las Vegas Dentistry can help too. If you need some help adding more sparkle to your smile, we’re here for you. We offer a number of whitening services, including Zoom in-office whitening and Opalescence Go take home trays. Give us a call 702-870-3818 to learn more or to schedule your appointment!
