When it comes to teeth, not all stains treated by Vancouver, WA dentist Dr. Jill Markos, DDS are created equal. Not only can stains be caused by a number of different factors, but the actual way that the teeth stain can vary as well. This information is not only useful for preventing stains, but it is also crucial for properly and effectively treating stains as well. Here are a few different types of stains you may encounter.
1. Food and Drink
Regularly consuming certain foods and drinks, including dark berries, coffee and soda, can stain your teeth over time. Thankfully, these stains are surface stains, and they are easy to remove if caught and treated early.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Forgetting to brush and floss doesn't just lead to cavities; it can also lead to stains. Not only can your teeth begin to turn yellow when you don't brush, but they can begin to turn dark as cavities form as well.
3. Genetic Factors
While everyone can benefit from routine oral care and avoiding foods and drinks that stain, genetics also determines who naturally has teeth that are whiter and who naturally has teeth that are darker. Just like our skin, our teeth come in a variety of shades.
4. Medications and Antibiotics
Certain medications and antibiotics also have the tendency to stain teeth. The medication tetracycline has been found to cause staining when teeth are forming in children. While staining may be unavoidable if you need a particular medication, you will definitely want to read the list of potential side effects on any medication or antibiotic you are prescribed and ask your dentist in Vancouver, WA if you have any concerns.
5. Fluoride
While fluoride is effective at strengthening teeth and preventing decay in people of all ages, if too much of it is consumed, particularly by children, teeth staining can result. Consumption of fluoridated water will not result in staining, only over fluoridation, such as from rinses and additives. The effect of over fluoridation is patchy or splotchy white spots on the teeth.
6. Age
Lastly, our teeth also naturally change shade as we age. This happens as the result of the foods and beverages we consume over a lifetime, as well as the thinning and weakening of the enamel.
Call Jil Markos, DDS Today!
No matter what has caused your tooth staining, your dentist in Vancouver, WA is ready to help you fix it. Call Dr. Markos and set up an appointment for teeth whitening today. You'll love seeing that bright, white, youthful, healthy smile once again!
Are you a patient of Jill Markos, DDS? If so, we would love to hear about your experiences below!