Discoloration of teeth is one major dental problem that is faced by many in Richmond, IN. This can affect your self-esteem and general oral health, says family dental care in Richmond, IN. Here, we examine the reasons for tooth discoloration and how it can be prevented in addition to discussing possible treatments; overall providing a complete guide on preserving our beautiful smiles.

Causes of Tooth Discoloration

The causes of tooth discolorations can be divided into different factors. These factors include extrinsic and intrinsic factors

Extrinsic Factors of Tooth Discoloration:

These are outside elements that discolor the tooth’s enamel, or outside layer:

• Food and Beverages: Eating or drinking coffee, tea, red wine, soda or berries can leave stain on the teeth over time.
• Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco will cause yellow/brown discolored teeth.
• Lack of Oral Hygiene: Not brushing and flossing adequately can lead to the accumulation of plaque on teeth which may cause cavities.
• Medication: Some mouthwashes and drugs, such as tetracycline and chlorhexidine, can produce extrinsic staining.

Intrinsic Factors of Tooth Discoloration:

This refers to factors that are within the tooth, they ulcerate on dentin (deep layer of decay).

• Aging: As we age, the enamel eventually wears away to show enamel-staining yellow dentin underneath.
• Trauma: An injury to a tooth can result in its darker color change due to damage of the internal elements.
• Fluorosis: While fluoride is very important in the fight against decay, too much can damage your teeth during tooth development and cause white spots or streaks on them.
• Genes: Some people have naturally darker teeth with a yellow tone.

Other Factors:

• Fillings and Crowns: The materials used in fillings and crowns can discolor teeth as they age.
• Medical Treatments: Various medical conditions and treatments can lead to changes in tooth color; an example of this is the use of chemotherapy, that has a negative impact upon your teeth.

Treatment Selection for a Discolored Tooth

If you are looking for treatment for Tooth Discoloration in Richmond, IN, there are several effective treatments:

• Laser Teeth Whitening: It is also known as chairside whitening performed using more powerful bleaching chemicals by the dentist where you can get an immediate result. Take-home whitening can also be done with custom-fitted trays and take-home kits for do-it-yourself-at-home low-strength whitening.
• At-Home Whitening: Over-the-counter, stick-on strips are not as safe but they can help lighten stains over time.
• Dental veneers: Veneers are thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that bond directly to the front surfaces of teeth and offer an outstanding appearance. For intrinsic stains that do not respond to bleaching, veneers are a good choice.
• Bonding: Bonding is the application of a tooth-colored resin to the surfaces and then hardening with light. This often conceals the staining making a tooth look better.
• Crowns: If you have some teeth which are severe discolored, or on the verge of breaking they could be saved with dental crowns. Unlike filings, crowns cover the tooth entirely which makes them a long-term discoloration solution.

Richmond, IN tooth discoloration is common but it can be prevented and improved with thorough comprehension of what causes yellow teeth. Through understanding how the habits were formed, preventative care practices and possible solutions, residents will be able to reach a brighter smile. If tooth discoloration is an issue for you, make sure to contact a reputable Richmond dentist who will advise on how it should be corrected. Great oral health can still be your years down the line, with a bit of hard work on your part.