---

Tooth discoloration occurs when teeth lose their natural whiteness and take on shades of yellow, brown, gray, or other colors. This can happen due to various factors, which are typically categorized as extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related causes.

1. Extrinsic Stains

These stains affect the outer surface of the tooth (enamel). They are usually caused by external factors like:

• Foods and beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and berries can stain teeth over time.
• Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco leaves yellow or brown stains.
• Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and tartar to build up, which can lead to discoloration.
• Staining agents: Some mouthwashes or toothpaste containing chlorhexidine or stannous fluoride may contribute to staining.

2. Intrinsic Stains

These stains occur within the tooth and may be harder to remove. Causes include:

• Medications: Certain antibiotics (like tetracycline or doxycycline) taken during childhood can cause permanent discoloration. Antihistamines, chemotherapy, and other drugs can also play a role.

How Do I Stop My Teeth from Staining?

Preventing teeth stains requires a combination of good oral hygiene, dietary awareness, and regular dental care. Here are effective strategies to keep your teeth bright and stain-free:

1. Maintain Excellent Oral Hygiene

• Brush regularly: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid enamel damage.
• Floss daily: Flossing removes food particles and plaque that can contribute to stains.
• Use mouthwash: An antibacterial or whitening mouthwash can help remove stains and prevent plaque buildup.

2. Watch Your Diet

• Limit staining foods and drinks: Reduce consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and highly pigmented foods (like berries or curry).
• Use a straw: When drinking staining beverages, use a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
• Rinse after meals: Rinse your mouth with water after consuming staining foods or drinks to reduce their impact.

3. Avoid Tobacco

Smoking or chewing tobacco is one of the leading causes of tooth discoloration. Quitting can significantly improve your oral and overall health.

4. Professional Dental Care

• Schedule regular cleanings: Professional cleanings by your dentist or hygienist can remove plaque and tartar that contribute to stains.
• Ask about whitening options: If discoloration is a concern, your dentist can recommend professional whitening treatments or products.

5. Use Whitening Products

• Whitening toothpaste: Use a toothpaste formulated to remove surface stains. Avoid abrasive ones that may damage enamel.
• At-home kits: Over-the-counter whitening strips or trays can help, but consult your dentist first.

6. Protect Your Enamel

Weakened enamel can absorb stains more easily. Protect your enamel by:

• Avoiding acidic foods and drinks (e.g., citrus, soda).
• Waiting 30 minutes to brush after consuming acidic foods.
• Using fluoride toothpaste to strengthen enamel.

7. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water helps wash away staining agents and promotes saliva production, which naturally protects teeth.

What Vitamin Deficiency Causes Teeth Discoloration?

Vitamin deficiencies can contribute to teeth discoloration and poor oral health. Specifically, deficiencies in the following vitamins may play a role:

1. Vitamin D Deficiency

• Role in Teeth Health: Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphate, essential for strong teeth and enamel. A deficiency can weaken enamel, making teeth more susceptible to stains and discoloration.
• Effects: Teeth may appear dull, yellow, or prone to decay, which can also lead to discoloration.

2. Vitamin C Deficiency

• Role in Teeth Health: Vitamin C supports gum health and helps maintain the integrity of the connective tissues in the mouth.
• Effects: A deficiency can lead to bleeding gums (scurvy) and damaged gums, exposing roots and causing discoloration near the gumline.

3. Vitamin A Deficiency

• Role in Teeth Health: Vitamin A is important for the production of saliva, which protects against staining and supports enamel health.
• Effects: Deficiency may lead to dry mouth, which increases the risk of plaque buildup and tooth discoloration.

4. Vitamin B Deficiencies (Especially B12 and B6)

• Role in Teeth Health: These vitamins support healthy gums and oral tissues.
• Effects: Deficiencies can lead to gum disease, bad breath, and changes in oral tissue color, indirectly affecting teeth appearance.

5. Calcium (Technically a Mineral)

• Role in Teeth Health: Although not a vitamin, calcium works closely with vitamin D to maintain strong teeth and enamel.
• Effects: Insufficient calcium can lead to weakened enamel and discoloration.

Addressing Deficiencies:

1. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals (e.g., dairy, leafy greens, citrus fruits, fatty fish, and nuts).
2. Taking supplements as needed, but consult a healthcare provider first.
3. Regular dental visits to address discoloration and oral health concerns.

Can a Hygienist Remove Brown Stains?

Yes, a dental hygienist can typically remove brown stains from teeth, depending on the cause and severity of the discoloration. Here's how they can help:

1. Professional Teeth Cleaning

• Plaque and tartar removal: Hygienists use specialized tools to remove plaque and hardened tartar (calculus), which can cause or contribute to brown stains.
• Polishing: After cleaning, the hygienist polishes your teeth with a gritty paste, which helps remove surface stains and smooth the enamel.

2. Scaling and Root Planing

For more stubborn stains caused by plaque or tartar buildup beneath the gumline, scaling and root planing may be performed. This deep-cleaning process removes deposits that brushing and flossing cannot.

3. Air Polishing

Some hygienists use an air polishing device that sprays a mixture of water, air, and a mild abrasive powder to effectively remove surface stains, including brown discoloration.

4. Stain Prevention Advice

• Improving oral hygiene techniques.
• Avoiding staining foods and beverages.
• Using fluoride products or whitening toothpaste.

What Can’t Be Removed by a Hygienist?

If brown stains are intrinsic (inside the tooth), such as those caused by:

• Certain medications (e.g., tetracycline).
• Fluorosis.
• Trauma to the tooth.

Then professional teeth whitening or restorative treatments like veneers or bonding may be necessary.

A hygienist’s cleaning is a great first step to restore the natural brightness of your teeth and assess if additional cosmetic procedures are needed. Regular visits every 6 months help maintain a stain-free smile!

---

Dentist Kanata