5 Causes of Tooth Staining & How To Remove

As a cosmetic dentist, one of the most common questions I get asked is, “what causes tooth staining?” Tooth staining can make a person self-conscious about their smile and detract from their overall appearance. Understanding the causes of tooth staining is essential so we can better prevent it and take steps to remove it. 

Common Causes of Tooth Staining 

1. Food and drink  

Some of the most common culprits are coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits and vegetables like berries, beets, and soy sauce. These substances contain pigments that can stick to your teeth and cause discoloration.  

2. Smoking 

Smoking and using tobacco products are some of the most significant causes of tooth staining. The tar and nicotine in these products can cause yellowing and darkening of the teeth over time. In addition, the heat from smoking can also cause tooth discoloration by breaking down the tooth’s structure. If you smoke or use tobacco products, it’s essential to take extra steps to keep your teeth healthy and white, such as brushing regularly, using a whitening toothpaste, and visiting the dentist for regular cleanings. 

3. Aging  

As we age, the enamel on our teeth naturally becomes thinner, allowing the dentin, the layer underneath the enamel, to show through. Dentin is naturally yellow, which can cause our teeth to look yellow or dull as we age. In addition, our teeth are exposed to more staining agents over time, such as food, drinks, and tobacco products, which can add to the discoloration. To help keep your teeth looking bright and white, it’s essential to take good care of your oral health, including brushing and flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for cleanings and check-ups. 

4. Certain medications 

Certain medications can cause tooth staining. Tetracycline antibiotics, for example, can cause staining if taken during tooth development. Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can also cause staining as a side effect. Talk to your doctor or dentist about alternative medications or treatments if you’re concerned about medication-related tooth staining.  

5. Poor Oral Hygiene 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is critical to preventing tooth staining. Poor oral hygiene can lead to the buildup of plaque and tartar, which can cause staining and discoloration. Brushing regularly, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove plaque and prevent staining. In addition, visiting the dentist for regular cleanings and check-ups is essential to keeping your teeth healthy and white. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles can become trapped in the spaces between your teeth and along the gum line, mixing with bacteria and creating harmful acids that can cause staining and tooth decay. So, brush twice a day, floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings to keep your teeth healthy and white. 

Removing Stains from Teeth 

The good news is that there are several steps you can take to remove stains from your teeth and keep them from coming back. Here are some of the best ways to remove stains from teeth: 

1. Brush your teeth regularly: Brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste can help remove stains and prevent new ones from forming. 

2. Use a whitening toothpaste: Whitening toothpastes contain ingredients that can help remove surface stains from your teeth. 

3. Try a whitening strip or tray: Over-the-counter whitening strips and trays can effectively remove stains, but following the instructions carefully is essential to avoid damaging your teeth. 

4. Visit your dentist: If you’re looking for more significant results, consider visiting a cosmetic dentist for professional teeth whitening. A cosmetic dentist can provide you with custom-fit whitening trays and a powerful whitening gel to help remove staining. 

Tooth staining is a common problem caused by various factors, including coffee, tea, tobacco use, aging, certain medications, and poor oral hygiene. By understanding what causes tooth staining, you can take steps to prevent and remove it if necessary.  

While each approach has its advantages and disadvantages, it’s important to keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to removing tooth stains. Over-the-counter products may offer a more affordable and convenient option, but they often have weaker whitening agents and can take longer to produce results. Professional teeth whitening treatments offer a more significant change in a shorter amount of time, but they can be more expensive. At-home remedies, such as brushing with baking soda, may be gentler on the teeth, but they can also take longer to produce noticeable results. To determine the best approach for removing your tooth stains, it’s essential to talk to a dentist for a consultation. They can assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of action for achieving a brighter, whiter smile. 

Where Can I Find Teeth Whitening Near Me? 

Concierge Dental Group provides teeth whitening and other cosmetic dentistry services, and has offices in Williamsville, Clarence, Lancaster, and West Seneca. Our teeth whitening can remove stains and discoloration on teeth to give them a brighter and whiter appearance. In-office teeth whitening can significantly change the color of teeth in just one visit. The procedure involves the application of a high-concentration peroxide gel to remove stains and whiten the teeth. If you’re interested in teeth whitening, contact Concierge Dental Group today for a consultation to see if it’s the proper treatment for you. Smile for me; just dial 3. 716-333-3333.