Common Causes of Pigmentation and How to Fix Them

Everyone desires a bright smile, but they are often unable to achieve it because of tooth pigmentation, which is a common occurrence in our busy lifestyles. While this pigmentation is treatable, it is important to understand its causes to get the right solution for bright teeth.

This blog explores the common causes of pigmentation, how they affect teeth, and how to fix these issues. However, this blog is only for educational purposes. For safety reasons, we suggest that you do not opt for DIY or at-home solutions to dental pigmentation and always consult a professional for treatments.

Extrinsic Stains: The Impact of Diet and Lifestyle

One of the major types of stains on the teeth is extrinsic stains, which are formed on the surface of enamel and are often caused by beverages such as coffee, tea, wine, and soda. This can also be caused by smoking or certain foods such as berries or sauces. These items contain natural and artificial colors and nicotine, in the case of tobacco. Due to these substances, the enamel, or the outer layer of the teeth, is stained, making your teeth look yellow and discolored.

This can be easily fixed with regular dental cleanings, practicing good oral hygiene, and professional teeth whitening treatments as these stains are easy to remove and easier to prevent. Avoid consumption of food and beverages that could stain the teeth and do not smoke or chew tobacco for the best shining teeth.

Intrinsic Stains: Deeper Discoloration

Some stains are stronger and may go deeper than the enamel into the dentin. These are called intrinsic stains that cause deeper discoloration of the teeth. Such stains can be caused by factors like ageing, where the enamel wears off, certain medications such as tetracycline, excessive fluoride use, or trauma to the teeth.

These stains are not easily removable and may need a variety of treatments depending on the cause of discoloration. Treatment options include professional whitening, dental veneers or bonding. It is recommended that the stains be covered if they are not removable.

Poor Oral Hygiene and Plaque Buildup

Having poor oral hygiene leads to the accumulation of plaque on the surfaces of teeth, making them look dull and yellow. This includes inadequate brushing and flossing. Thus, it is important to follow good oral hygiene habits, and visit the dentist for regular dental visits. This includes brushing twice every day, followed by flossing to remove all debris from the teeth.

Also, follow the dentist's suggested advice when you visit them for regular checkups regarding the maintenance of your teeth.

Genetics and Natural Tooth Color

Your genetics also affect your enamel quality and the color of your teeth. If your enamel is good quality your teeth may appear whiter, and if it is a thin layer, the pulp may be more visible, making the teeth look darker. However, smile makeover treatments can now make your teeth look bright and beautiful despite the genetics and natural tooth color. Treatments such as veneers and bonding can enhance the appearance of naturally darker teeth.

Medications and Medical Treatments

Sometimes, certain medications and treatments can cause reactions that cause tooth pigmentation. It can be because of some antibiotics, chemotherapy, and radiation that lead to yellowed teeth and a dull smile.

Such stains might need some extra treatment to be fixed such as internal bleaching, veneers, or crowns. This can help in restoring bright teeth and making you feel confident yet again.

Ageing: Natural Yellowing of Teeth

As you age, your teeth become weaker, like your bones. Their protective layer, enamel, becomes weaker, thinner, and darker. Aging causes natural yellowing of the teeth where, even with good care, your teeth may turn a few shades darker when you grow old, as compared to your younger days.

Teeth pigmentation is a very common occurrence in most people and can be caused by a variety of reasons. It can be because of your diet, lifestyle, medicines, health conditions, etc. Understanding the root cause of the dullness can help you determine the perfect treatment plan. Also, you must consult a dentist after determining the cause of teeth discoloration for expert analysis and treatment. If you are looking for dental pigmentation treatment in Rajajinagar, book an appointment with us.