Cosmetic Dentistry

Darkened Teeth
Teeth typically get darker with age from extrinsic stains on the outside of the tooth or intrinsic stains that result when discoloration of the enamel occurs.

Extrinsic stains are caused by smoking and certain foods or drinks that stain teeth. Hot tea and coffee are especially effective stainers because the temperature changes in the mouth will cause the teeth to slightly expand and contract, which allows stains to penetrate the teeth more easily. Other culprits of tooth stain include grape and carrot juice, beets, and berries.

Intrinsic stains can result when the formation of the tooth is interrupted by things like high fevers or certain medications and gray or brown discoloration appears. Bright white sections can also appear on the tooth if enamel formation is disrupted.

Trauma or damage to the teeth can also cause discoloration. Teeth with amalgam fillings can turn darker with color as silver salts release themselves into the tooth over time. If a tooth is damaged and the nerve dies, the tooth will also show discoloration. Additional trauma that causes the tooth to inwardly bleed or if debris becomes lodged within the tooth can give it a darker color as well.

Extrinsic stains can usually be removed by professional cleaning and polishing of the teeth. Bleaching has also become a popular trend to get teeth back to their original colors. Another option is to have your dentist fit you with porcelain veneers.