Surbiton Dentist Explains Causes and Treatment of Tooth Discolouration

Numerous causes exist as to why a tooth or teeth become or are discoloured These include but are not limited to: tobacco use, food and drinks consumed, inadequate oral hygiene, disease(s), drugs dental restorations, ageing, genetics, and/or trauma. Your Surbiton dentist will review your health history and thoroughly examine your mouth, to help determine the causes of tooth/teeth discolouration. In terms of your dental and health history, your Surbiton dentist will asks many questions. These will include:
1) Do you use or have you ever used chewing tobacco or smoked? If so, how much, how often, and for how many years?
2) Do you eat dark coloured fruits and vegetables, drink coffee, colas, tea, or red wine? If so, how much, how often, and for how many years?
3) Show me how you brush and floss your teeth? How often and for how long do you brush and floss your teeth?
4) Are there any disease(s) that you have that will discolour your tooth enamel or dentin?
5) Are you taking any medication(s), or have you in the past, that will cause tooth discolouration? Did you mother take any medication(s), while she was pregnant with you, such as tetracyclines, antihistamines, anti-hypertensives, or antipsychotic, that would have discoloured your teeth?
6) Was there any previous trauma to your teeth, and when and how did this occur?
7) Where did you grow up? Was there fluoridated water? Was the water hard or soft? Was the water from a well or public water supply?
Also, advanced age can be the cause of tooth/teeth discolouration. The enamel layer of the tooth/teeth can be very thin, and more of the dentin (coloured layer) may be visible. Dental amalgams, mostly those that contain sulfides, can discolour your teeth, leaving them gray. Heredity is also a large factor, and if your parents had whiter teeth, chances are that you will also have whiter teeth.
If you want to prevent tooth/teeth discolouration, you may consider making several lifestyle changes in terms of eating, drinking and smoking. Cut back on dark foods and beverages, and try to quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Perform the best oral hygiene you possibly can, and visit your Surbiton dentist and have your teeth cleaned by a trained and certified dental hygienist. If you want a whiter smile, your dentist can help. The dentist will suggest teeth whitening, bonding, and/or porcelain veneers.