Most people know that pigmented foods and cavities can discolor your teeth, but berries and poor dental habits aren’t the only villains in the war against dingy smiles. Factors like genetics, general health, and your daily routine can also affect the color of your teeth, and your dentist might need to use a variety of techniques to restore your teeth to their original hue. Here are three other causes of tooth discoloration and ways your dentist can help.  

Certain Habits 

What do swimmers, smokers, and overly ambitious supplement takers have in common? A higher risk for discolored teeth. Chemicals in pool water can interact with your saliva and leave brown deposits on your teeth, while cigarettes contain tar that creates a sticky, dark film on the front of your teeth.

Even people with a focus on dental health can develop problems with discoloration. If you take too much fluoride, you can develop a condition called dental fluorosis, giving your teeth a mottled look. Fortunately, all three conditions can be treated by your dentist polishing the surfaces of teeth.   

Diseases or Medications

Some people are born with inherited conditions that impact the formation of dental enamel, giving their teeth a naturally yellow look. Certain medications, including some antibiotics, can make your teeth appear permanently gray. To resolve these problems, dentists can cover the teeth with veneers or full crowns.  

Impact & Injury

When teeth are concussed, internal bleeding inside of the tooth may occur, creating a brown or gray appearance. Additionally, internal injury can cause teeth to create more dentin, which gives teeth a yellow hue. However, swift professional intervention during emergencies and restorative treatments like dental implants can make your smile look new again.

Are your discolored teeth affecting the way you feel about your smile? Dr. Dan Kujak of Main Street Dental in La Crosse, WI, understands how much damage a little discoloration can do to your self-esteem, which is why he offers everything from root canal therapy and porcelain crowns to teeth whitening and cosmetic bonding. For more information about improving the look of your smile, visit the website or call (608) 784-4063.