Changes in the color of teeth, i.e. discoloration, can occur for many reasons which might be influenced by several external factors such as age, the presence of teeth diseases, or the lack, or excess, of specific minerals. Stains on the teeth can vary from white to very dark and can spread on the whole tooth or affect just a smaller part.

The most common reason for tooth discoloration is age, as with time tooth enamel grows thinner, while the underlying dentin becomes darker, which results in a yellowish shade of the teeth. Also, coffee, tea, colored or dark drinks, and smoking, can cause a darker shade of the teeth. Darker stains on the teeth can be caused by chromogenic bacteria as they deposit on the tooth, turning smaller areas to a darker color.

Discoloration of the entire tooth can occur after endodontic treatments, as the tooth then loses the flow of nutrients. Similar discolorations can be caused by certain drugs and as a consequence of tooth nerve dying, that is when a tooth becomes non-vital.

White stains can, on the other hand, indicate changes in the mineralisation of the tooth, thus occurring in cases of elevated fluoride intake or due to demineralisation of the enamel, often as a consequence of elevated mouth acidity. On deciduous teeth white spots can indicate the first stage of cavities.

While certain forms of discoloration cannot be prevented, but can be overcame through aesthetic treatments, such as veneers, others can be prevented trough correct hygiene, both at home and at the dentist’s. Also, certain discolorations can only be noticed and correctly interpreted by your oral health specialist, who will also know how to best treat them. Therefore, to maintain sparkly white teeth be sure to arrange regular check-ups with your dentist .Request a quote