Good Teeth: They Don't Have to Be in Your Genes

Your smile is an indicator of your underlying health.. Not only can it show that your teeth are in good, functional condition, but a healthy smile will also look more appealing. Although you probably understand how wine, coffee, and tobacco products stain your teeth, other things, which may surprise you, can also cause tooth discoloration. Yellow or brown teeth affect your smile's look, which can lead to self-esteem problems that affect your daily life, as well. This guide will teach you a few surprising things that are discoloring your teeth.

Whitening Toothpastes/Products

If you have hopes of a clean, white, and bright smile, you may use whitening toothpastes, mouth rinses, and strips. While you may think they are capable of improving the color of your smile, whitening products may actually be causing your teeth more harm than good.

Most whitening toothpastes, rinses, and strips contain bleaching products, which are incredibly abrasive. These bleaching agents may eat through food residue, plaque, and tough stains on the surface of your teeth, but the abrasive nature of these bleaching agents also eat through your tooth enamel.

Without a healthy and full layer of enamel, food and plaque will seep in through the enamel, discoloring the teeth in a more detailed and permanent manner.

If you do use whitening products, use them in moderation, since excessive use can actually harm your enamel.

Prescription Medications

Most people are surprised to learn certain prescription medications and medical treatments can yellow the teeth. Here are a few common medications that cause tooth discoloration:

• Antibiotics
• Antihistamines
• High blood pressure medicine

These medications contain ingredients that harm tooth enamel, yellow the teeth, and even cause dry mouth, which can lead to further staining and even tooth decay.

It is also important to note that if you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment, your teeth may appear yellow and stained.

In most cases, these medications and treatments are crucial to your well-being. However, discuss the side effects with your doctor to determine if a different medication/treatment is better suited to you and your oral health.

Acid Reflux

Acids dry out the mouth and eat through tooth enamel, so excess consumption of acidic foods and drinks will increase your risk of tooth discoloration, dry mouth, and even decay.

Of course, acids can build up in your mouth even if you do not eat or drink a lot of acidic foods.

If you have acid reflux, the acidic buildup will affect your teeth, eating through tooth enamel and drying out the mouth. This acid buildup will lead to stains and other dental complications including decay, cavities, and gum disease.

Contact a cosmetic dentist for more help in fixing your smile.