Discolored teeth affect your appearance and impact your self-confidence. The professionals at Bradley M. Stewart administer teeth cleaning, dental implants, Invisalign® services, and more for families in Olive Branch and DeSoto County, MS. As expert dental care providers for over 15 years, they explain the causes of tooth discoloration.

Here are some common issues that lead teeth to discolor:

• Food & Drink: The surface of your teeth has microscopic pits and ridges that catch food and drink particles. Coffee, tea, wine, and colas contain dark pigments that get caught in the ridges, discoloring your teeth. Dark foods like blueberries and blackberries also leave behind dark particles that can stain your teeth. If you don’t clean your teeth properly after consuming these foods and drinks, the stains can permanently discolor your teeth.
• Smoking: Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco all contain substances that discolor teeth. The nicotine—which turns yellow when combined with oxygen—and tar found in these products settle in the tiny cracks and pits in your tooth enamel, making your teeth look yellow. Heavy smoking can make your teeth appear brown, and these stains can be difficult to remove, even with professional teeth cleanings.
• Medications: Tretacycline—an antibiotic used to control infections and found in some acne medications—antihistamines, and some hypertension medications can cause teeth to discolor. Let your dentist know if you take any of these medications so they can provide the proper dental care.
• Trauma: Impact to the tooth, whether from a simple fall or getting hit in the mouth, can damage the tooth and cause it to bleed internally. The blood leaks into the tooth pulp—which is made up of tissue, blood vessels, and nerves—and darkens the tooth. Visit your dentist immediately if you experience trauma to prevent a dead tooth.
• Poor Dental Hygiene: Failing to brush and floss properly leaves behind food particles that stain teeth. It also creates plaque buildup, which makes your teeth appear yellow. Regular brushing, flossing, and visits to the dentist can help prevent discolored teeth.

Speak to your dentist when you have concerns about discolored teeth or other dental care issues. Contact the office of Bradley M. Stewart in Olive Branch at (662) 893-5800 or online to schedule your next appointment.