What causes brown spots in teeth?
Dr. D.Sendhil Nathan MDS, DNB Prosthodontics And Implantology
Discolouration in teeth is a phenomenon that is experienced by many people worldwide. Discolouration happens when the outermost layer of the tooth enamel is either stained by wine, coffee, drinks or other substances.
The main factors responsible for staining of teeth are:
1) Tobacco usage
The extensive usage of nicotine, a substance present in tobacco is known to cause brown/black spots in the teeth. Nicotine also contains particles that attach to the tiny pores present in the teeth.
To avoid brown spots in the teeth, it is vital that you avoid chewing tobacco or consuming it in any form.
2) Beverages
It is a well known fact that beverages like cola can cause yellow spots and even lead to proliferation of bacteria due to the sugar present in them. Some common culprits among beverages that lead to stains are:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Red Wine
- Pomegranate Juice
- Strawberry/Blackberry
3) Genetics
Genes also play a role in deciding whether you are susceptible to oral hygiene issues leading to symptoms like brown spots in your oral region.
4) Poor oral hygiene
Not brushing or flossing regularly might lead to tooth decay, which in turn would show up as brown spots present in the teeth.
5) Celiac disease
Especially in children, celiac disease is one of the main reasons for the discolouration in teeth.
6) Fluorosis
Studies have also shown that fluoride can blemish the enamel present in the teeth and even cause brown spots in teeth.
7) Mouth wash
Some mouthwashes are known to contain chlorhexidine which causes brown spots. This is why you ought to ask your chemist if a mouthwash contains “chlorhexidine” in it or look at the components in the cover of the mouth wash.
8) Tartar/Plaque
The accumulation of food particles in the mouth, especially sugar causes plaque in your teeth. This plaque then results in the formation of acids which breaks down the enamel present in the teeth. The result of this would be the formation of brown spots in the teeth.
9) Medicines
Some medicines like Glynase is known to cause the occurrence of brown spots in your teeth. This is why you ought to check with your dentist if a medication might have side effects that result in discolouration in teeth and if possible, take an alternative medication.
10) Age
Age is also a main factor when it comes to occurence of the stains in your teeth. This is why you ought to maintain proper oral hygiene to maintain good oral hygiene even in your old age.
11) Accidents
Sometimes, an external injury or an accident might result in the displacement of the tooth from the oral region. This might also result in the presence of stains.
