In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked at some of the possible causes of staining or discoloration on teeth - both controllable and uncontrollable. There are several things that can lead to staining on teeth, some of which trace back to genetics or other areas that can't be helped while others speak to behaviors that can be changed with the right approaches.
At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, we're here to provide several services for our Layton patients to assist with any tooth discoloration, from general dentistry and preventive care to solutions like teeth whitening and more. Here are some of the other possible culprits in stained or discolored teeth, plus what can be done about those that are controllable.
One of the possible causes of tooth staining that definitely falls in the "controllable" bin is what we eat and drink. There are several things that can lead to staining or discoloration - whether over a long period of time or in more immediate fashion - including certain foods, drinks and additives.
For instance, particularly pigmented foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine and colas can be big contributors here. In addition, acidic drinks and especially dark-colored juices like cranberry or grape can leave staining on teeth over time. This isn't to say that you can never consume these foods or beverages, but moderation and proper oral hygiene can be helpful in combating their effects.
In other cases, certain medications can lead to tooth discoloration or staining over time. These include some antibiotics (such as tetracycline), antihistamines and high blood pressure medications, among others. If you're taking these medications and begin to notice discoloration on your teeth, speak to your doctor about possible alternatives or strategies for preventing this issue.
There may be some cases where you have no choice but to take medication that could lead to tooth discoloration, but this doesn't mean you're out of options. At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, our teeth whitening solutions can help counteract the effects of these medications and leave you with a brighter smile.
Finally, let's look at aging and its effects on tooth discoloration. As we get older, our teeth naturally become more yellow or off-white in color. This is simply a product of time and the fact that our teeth are constantly exposed to staining agents like food, drink and tobacco.
While this aspect of tooth discoloration might not be preventable, it is treatable. With regular cleanings and proper oral hygiene, you can minimize the staining that occurs over time and keep your teeth looking healthy and bright well into your later years.
At Hillfield Pediatric & Family Dentistry, our goal is to help our patients achieve and maintain healthy, beautiful smiles for life. If you're struggling with tooth discoloration or staining, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for a consultation and personalized treatment plan. We're here to help you love your smile!
