Fall Colors of Yellow, Brown, and Darkening
The vibrant colors of fall are certainly captivating as leaves become brighter and eventually scatter beautifully across our local landscapes. Changes in color often appeal to the eye, but as for our handy pearly whites, there’s a stark contrast. We tend to be dissatisfied with yellows, browns, and darkening when it comes to our teeth. While color changes with your teeth can be concerning, there are many reasons as to why your teeth are changing colors in the first place.
The Trouble with Some Beloved Foods and Beverages
Many of us are familiar with tea and coffee staining teeth over time. These beverages contain color compounds called “tannins,” which stick to teeth resulting in stains. Sugary treats and acidic foods can cause discoloration over time too by allowing plaque to build up on our teeth and wear away at the enamel. Keeping up with your oral hygiene routine and regular dental appointments are fundamental when removing tough stains and unwanted plaque from your teeth.
More on Wearing Down the Outer Surface
When you look at your teeth in the mirror, the tooth layer that you are likely seeing is the enamel. This protective layer covers the dentin layer, which can look a yellowish or greyish color. When enamel becomes worn down, dentin is more likely to show its true colors off to the world. Factors such as aging, grinding your teeth, and even brushing too hard can wear down enamel over time. Genetics can also play a role causing one person to have thinner enamel over another. Who knew dentin could be so colorful?
Lack of an Oral Hygiene Routine
Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once not only keeps your teeth healthier, but it also can prevent them from yellowing. Tartar and plaque that build up on the teeth can cause this type of discoloration. Plus, tooth decay is more likely to appear in this situation. Tooth decay exposes dentin, making the area appear darker. If your oral hygiene routine could use a little work, start today or right now even! It’s never too late to have healthier teeth.
Other Considerations
After a fall or getting hit in the mouth, you may notice discoloration. Changes in color after trauma is a sign that blood is leaking through to the dentin and causing unwanted darkening. It’s crucial to see your dentist as soon as possible after an incident like this. Injuries can cause the tooth’s pulp to die, leading to root canal treatment. The sooner you can get in, the better.
Keep in mind that tobacco and certain medications could also be culprits for discoloration. Blood pressure medications, antihistamines, or chemotherapy could cause darkening. As for tobacco, tar and nicotine are to blame for the change. After hearing all of the possible causes of why teeth change color, what’s a person to do? We have an answer!
Best Solution When Teeth Change Color
Maybe you’re ready for a beautiful smile to match the gorgeous fall season. But guess what? We truly believe that your smile is already unique and one you should want to show off to the world. But, if you are bothered by discoloration during this fall season, the very best course of action you can take is to schedule an appointment with us.
Even if you’re confident that you know the cause, we’ll want to do detective work of our own. Our bodies sometimes keep us pain-free even when there is an underlying problem. Confusing that stain for a cavity can and does happen! We’ll find the source of the issue and be able to provide the very best recommendation from there. Besides, you deserve your healthiest smile while you’re enjoying the season’s changing colors.
We’re right here for you all season long and all year long if you need to make an appointment.
We absolutely love fall, but don’t just take our word for it. Find out more about us this season by following us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
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