Common Causes of Tooth Discoloration

In today's modern world with coffee houses on every corner, soda machines in every convenience store, and more dyes in our food than we can possibly name, it is no wonder that so many people have issues with tooth discoloration.

Unfortunately, many people find this issue quite disturbing and it has led to a booming industry for those in the business of making tooth whitening products. There are three basic types of tooth discoloration: extrinsic discoloration, intrinsic discoloration, and age-related discoloration.

Extrinsic discoloration is classified as discoloration of the outer tooth enamel from “outside” influences. This includes discoloration and stains from things like coffee, food, soda, tea, wine, and smoking. Extrinsic discoloration is the number one cause of tooth discoloration, as there are so many things that we consume on a daily basis that will cause discoloration to our teeth.

Intrinsic discoloration occurs when the inner part of the tooth becomes discolored. The inner part of the tooth, called the dentin, can darken or get a yellow tint and cause tooth to appear visibly discolored. This form of discoloration is often caused by excessive exposure to fluoride as a child. It can also by tetracycline antibiotics.

Age-related discoloration is of course the normal discoloration of teeth as we age. Not only do the teeth become thinner which can cause them to appear discolored, but the long term effects of both intrinsic and extrinsic discoloration add to the wear as well.

There are of course a handful of other factors that can cause discoloration to the teeth. Teeth that have been damaged or injured can become discolored. There are some illnesses as well that will causes a discoloration to the teeth. For the most part though, tooth discoloration is the result of outside factors, and can easily be controlled with proper and routine dental hygiene.