When brown spots appear on teeth, it may be a sign of any number of conditions. Many dark-colored foods and drinks contain “chromogens,” substances in organic fluids that form color when oxidized. For instance, the tannic acid in red wine can not only stain teeth, but the stains can also become permanent, especially among people with poor dental hygiene. Nicotine and tobacco products can also have a similar effect, as the particles in cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco stick to microscopic pores in tooth enamel. These stains eventually become darker and more difficult to remove. Lastly, brown spots on teeth may indicate accumulated plaque that hardens into a substance (“tartar”) that is linked with tooth decay and tooth discoloration.
So, what are you to do when this happens?
Your first line of defense is to book a dental hygiene cleaning. Experts at cleaning and polishing your teeth, even dark nicotine stains can be removed by a skilled hygienist.
If your teeth are still discolored, an in-office or take-home whitening treatment can help you regain the brighter, whiter smile of your youth.
Some tooth staining remains impervious to even the most up-to-date teeth whitening treatments. In these rare cases, a thin veneer can cover your tooth – and the staining too!
And always remember – your excellent homecare: brushing twice a day and cleaning between your teeth every day – will minimize plaque and tartar buildup in between dental hygiene appointments.
If your smile isn’t as bright and white as you’d like, consider booking an appointment with Batavia Family Dental. With a range of beautiful cosmetic treatments, we can help you reinvent your smile. Located at 6 Batavia City Centre, our leading-edge dental office will give you a reason to smile!
Yours in excellent dental health,
Dr. Steve Sokolovskiy, Batavia Family Dental
P.S. As plaque and tartar eat the sugars that pass through the mouth, they produce acids, which cause decay and weaken enamel.