One of the most common cosmetic complaints across the board is dental staining and discoloration. This very common problem can pop up for a number of different reasons. Today our Glendale cosmetic dentists are providing an overview of the things that can cause dental staining and aesthetic changes. We hope that this information helps you understand what is happening with your smile if you start to notice that your enamel is changing color!
- Environmental stains
Many of the things that we consume, and expose our teeth to, leave color deposits on our enamel. Drinks such as coffee, tea, cola, and red wine can lead to staining. Additionally, foods that are dark/rich in color—berries, red sauces, chocolate—can lead to discoloration over time. The number one culprit of staining is tobacco—all types of tobacco products can cause grey and brown streaks.
- Enamel thinning
Over time your dental enamel can become thinner and more porous. When this happens, more of the dental layer beneath the dental enamel—dentin—shows through to the surface of the tooth. Because dentin is yellow, enamel thinning can lead to your entire tooth appearing dull and yellow.
Additionally, once your enamel starts to thin it becomes more susceptible to absorbing environmental stains. So, it is important to keep your dental enamel strong if you want to minimize dental staining.
- Damage
Sometimes teeth become dark and dull because the tooth root/nerve was damaged. If you sustain dental trauma, and notice aesthetic changes to any of your teeth, please consult with your dentist.
As you can see, your teeth may become stained or dark for a number of different reasons. The good news is that our Glendale aesthetic dentists can help you regain a bright and attractive smile with state-of-the-art treatments. So, give us a call to schedule a consultation and get started!