Teeth staining beverages like coffee, wine, and sodas are popular causes of teeth stains due to their high acidic properties and/or chromogen content (the coloured pigments that stick to your tooth enamel). Did you know, however, that there are other lesser known causes of stains? Below are five surprising causes as shared by a skilled London teeth whitening expert:
Genes and aging
The whiteness of your teeth is determined by the thickness of your enamel, which is the protective coating for your dentin (the next layer that is naturally yellowish). This trait can be inherited and explains why some people have whiter teeth than others. Since enamel gradually wears down as we grow old, being born with thinner enamel means your dentin is more likely to show through earlier.
Tobacco
Nicotine in tobacco is a colourless substance that turns yellow when exposed to oxygen. When tobacco smoke is inhaled, nicotine, along with tar, percolates the enamel’s microscopic openings and settles there, resulting in yellowish or brownish teeth. They are on the outer layer, though, so brushing after smoking can help remove them.
Fluoride overdose
Fluoride helps keep the teeth healthy, but in excessive quantities, it can break down your teeth’s enamel. This condition is called fluorosis, which usually results in chalky white or brown patches or lines on the teeth’s surface. You can shift to fluoride-free mouth cleaner or use a fluoride product once or twice a week to reduce consumption.
Medicines
Antibiotics like minocycline, doxycycline and tetracycline can cause yellow-brown or blue-gray discolourations that appear in horizontal striped pattern. Meanwhile, cough syrup can cause dry mouth and inhibit the secretion of saliva, which dilutes acid and washes dirt away from the teeth.
Pool water
The average pool’s pH level is considered to be basic, meaning dissolved substances can solidify when exposed to it. When in a swimming pool, minerals on your teeth surface can harden rather than dissolve, which is the opposite of the effect of eating or drinking anything acidic. As per OralAnswers.com, the antimicrobial compounds in the pool water break protein down in your mouth, combining with minerals to form a hard, yellowish-brown deposit.
When you notice severe stains on your teeth, it would be best to consult a dentist that offers teeth whitening in London clinics like the London Bridge Dental Practice. With their help and knowledge of things you must avoid to achieve whiter teeth, you’ll be on your way to a brighter smile.
(Source: Can Chlorine in Swimming Pools Dissolve or Stain Your Teeth? OralAnswers.com)
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