Causes of Tooth Discolouration

Extrinsic Discoloration:

Extrinsic stains occur on the surface of the enamel, the outermost layer of the tooth. Common causes of extrinsic discoloration include:

Food and Drinks: Consuming dark-coloured foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits, can stain the teeth over time.

Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco products can lead to yellow or brown stains on the teeth.

Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque and tartar to build up, contributing to discoloration.

Certain Medications: Some medications, like certain antihypertensive drugs and antipsychotics, can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect.

Environmental Factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as high levels of fluoride during tooth development, can cause discoloration.

Intrinsic Discoloration:

Intrinsic stains originate from within the tooth, affecting the dentine (the layer beneath the enamel) or the pulp. Causes of intrinsic discoloration include:

Ageing: As people age, the more translucent enamel on their teeth naturally wears down, revealing the yellowish dentine underneath, as well as the dentine layer becomes denser.

Genetics: Some people may be genetically predisposed to have teeth that are more prone to discoloration.

Trauma: Injury to a tooth, either during development or after eruption, can cause discoloration. The tooth may react by producing more dentine, which can darken the tooth.

Certain Medications: Antibiotics like tetracycline, when taken during tooth development, can lead to intrinsic stains. 

Dental Procedures: Some dental treatments, such as root canal therapy, can cause intrinsic discoloration over time.

It’s important to note that a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors can contribute to tooth discoloration. Understanding the specific cause of discoloration is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment or prevention method. Reach out to the team at Renew Dental Lounge if you’re concerned about the colour of your teeth. We can offer a various of options to improve the colour of your teeth, ranging from professional cleaning, tooth-whitening treatments to crowns and veneers, to suit your individual concerns.