There are many reasons why your teeth might look like they have stains on them. The most common causes of stained teeth, though, are coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking. However, the good news is that teeth stains aren’t always permanent and can be removed with a little bit of effort. You can consult a Fort Myers, FL dentist if you want to know if your teeth are stained and, if so, what it will cost to remove them.
If you want to remove the stains from your teeth, you will first have to discover what caused them in the first place. Some of the most common reasons for stained teeth are:
- Red wine, coffee, and other dark beverages
These drinks make your teeth look red and also stain them permanently. The best way to prevent this from happening again is to drink these beverages through a straw. Using a straw will prevent the liquid from coming into contact with your teeth.
- Tobacco products
Smoking is the leading cause of stained teeth, but there are many other things that can stain or discolor your teeth. Using a water pipe, hookah, or other tobacco product can stain your teeth. Tobacco products contain tar and other chemicals that stain your teeth over time.
- Medications
Certain medications, as well as some dental procedures, can cause discoloration in your teeth. Some of the drugs that can cause stains are tetracycline, methoxyflurane, oxytetracycline, minocycline, and self-tanning products. If you use these products or take these medications, you might be surprised when you look at yourself in the mirror to notice a difference in your teeth’ color.
- Blackberries and dark sauces
Blackberries and dark sauces can cause teeth stains. If you eat these foods frequently, your teeth will look browner. It can also make them appear yellowed or grey if you eat these foods regularly over many years.
- Poor dental hygiene
Poor dental hygiene can cause your teeth to look stained. Not brushing and flossing regularly can lead to discoloration of your teeth. If you don’t clean your teeth, food particles and other materials will stick to them. This is a big problem because the longer it’s on there, the more likely it will stain your teeth.