07 Feb Why do I have a Dark Spot on my Tooth?
Discoloration on teeth can occur for many reasons … poor dental hygiene, medications, fluorosis, decay, lifestyle habits, and aging. While some of the causes of dental stain are preventable smoking or tobacco use, foods like (coffee, tea, red wine, berries, beets, etc.), some occur without choice. It’s important to know when teeth become stained, because our family dentist has options to present to you that can improve the appearance of your dentition.
Dental hygiene
A consistent and effective daily hygiene regimen is critical to maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Brushing with a fluoridated tooth paste or gel at least twice per day; flossing at least one per day; and visiting our family dentist every six months can mean the difference between healthy teeth and a beautiful smile, or decayed and spotted teeth.
Medications
If certain medications seem to be impacting your dental enamel, you may be able to alter the dosage or change the medicine to prevent teeth staining.
Fluorosis
Fluoride has been determined to be a crucial addition for dental health. The water supply in the majority of cities and communities across the U.S. is treated with fluoride; however, with the consumption of bottled water and alternative beverages on the rise, fluoride supplements in vitamins taken to offset this new trend may result in too much of a good thing. Brown streaks or spots can appear in teeth where over-fluoridation is a problem.
Decay
When dental enamel is breached, decay can result. In years past, dentistry had only silver amalgam to repair a cavity. Thankfully, now we have tooth colored composite resin, so even front teeth impacted by dental decay can be repaired with almost invisible results.
Lifestyle habits
Smoking and tobacco use can result in brown, yellow, or spotted teeth. Eliminating tobacco is critical for dental health such as periodontal disease. It is more than just an aesthetic issue.
Diet
The foods and beverages known to cause dental stain can be limited to help prevent teeth discoloring. But when consumed, rinsing or brushing as soon as possible may reduce enamel stain.
Aging
The protective covering of our teeth is enamel. The natural coloring of the dentition beneath that enamel is yellow. Many years of brushing, eating, and smiling may result in the yellow hue seen as we age.
To learn more, contact our team at Aesthetic Dental Partners today and set up an appointment.