Causes of Tooth Staining

Why your teeth discolour

As your teeth age they begin to discolour.  The rate of discolouration varies from person to person and diet and genetic factors influence this.  If your ancestors had teeth that stayed white longer as they aged, the chances are that yours will too.

Diet

Strong colours in foods will discolour your teeth so avoid or limit such things as coffee, tea, red wine, some heavily spiced foods such as curries and foods with high pigment concentrates such as balsamic vinegars, soy sauces and strongly coloured fruit drinks.  Food and drink with a high acid or sugar content will affect tooth discolouration.  Try to avoid excessive use of these products.
Very hot and very cold food and drink will cause fine cracking of the tooth enamel, which will allow pigments to penetrate the tooth surface and cause staining.


Smoking

Nicotine discolours smoker’s teeth.  The heavier they smoke, the heavier the staining on their teeth. 

Dental Care

Regular and consistent dental care will help to maintain the health and colour of your teeth.  You can’t keep that bright, white smile without giving it good care and attention.
Regular check-ups with your dentist and daily flossing and brushing your teeth with a non-abrasive tooth paste and a SOFT bristled brush will ensure that you keep your teeth whiter longer and that you will keep your teeth longer too.
If you are on a regular course of medication then that could be a cause of tooth staining or darkening.  Your dentist will advise you on this.


The Ageing Process

Although we have found the human gene responsible for the aging process, we cannot yet stop ourselves from aging, and darkening and yellowing of our teeth is all part of the ageing process.  Teeth whitening products will whiten your teeth and give you back that bright and healthy smile.

Medication 

Medications that can darken or stain teeth are:
Antibiotics such as doxycycline and tetracycline.  Antihistamines and antidepressants.  Chemotherapy and some mouthwashes and excessive levels of fluoride in drinking water are also culprits.