Teeth discoloration is the result of stains on the teeth’s surface or changes inside the tooth, and is basically divided into three types: extrinsic, intrinsic and age related. Discussed below are factors contributing to the dull, dark, and stained appearance of your once pearly whites:

POOR ORAL HYGIENE:

This is an extrinsic factor where inadequate brushing results in the buildup of bacteria that eventually stain the teeth, causing them to look dull or dark.

MEDICATION:

Tetracycline and Doxycycline are antibiotics that treat bacterial infections. It is a safe antibiotic for pregnant women, but unfortunately, it can cause staining on the unborn child’s teeth and is therefore an intrinsic factor.

AGE:

Over the years, our teeth start to wear and tear from grinding and chewing, revealing the natural color of the underlying dentine, which has a more yellowish touch, and forming tiny defects that will allow small amounts of food debris to accumulate, causing stain buildup.

CALCIUM METABOLISM DISORDER:

Calcium metabolism disorder is an intrinsic factor and the abnormality of calcium levels in our body, and is caused by conditions such as Hypocalcaemia, i.e. low levels of calcium in the blood. Low calcium levels result in the teeth appearing more dull and yellowish.

MEDICAL TREATMENTS:

Radiation treatments, such as chemotherapy and head and neck radiation treatments, can weaken the enamel, making it brittle. This allows dark food and drink and other staining substances to penetrate the teeth and cause staining.

GENETICS:

Unfortunately, for some of us, genes play an important part in the color of our teeth and no matter how much you avoid that cup of coffee or cigarette, you just simply cannot fight genes.

Keeping teeth discoloration at bay calls for proper dental hygiene coupled with eating the right foods and visits to your dentist on a regular basis