There are a variety of factors that can contribute to the darkening and discoloration of your teeth. Some of the most common causes of teeth darkening include:
• Foods and beverages
• Tobacco products
• Inadequate dental care
• Medications
• Aging

Foods and Beverages and Products to Avoid

Common foods and beverages that can darken or stain your teeth include blueberries, cranberries, spinach, beets, tomatoes, coffee, tea, soft drinks and red wine. Smoking and chewing tobacco products stain teeth and certain drugs can cause permanent tooth discoloration. Inadequate daily oral hygiene can leave debris on your teeth that causes darkening and staining also. The aging process wears down the outer layer of enamel and allows the darker layers to show through causing the appearance of staining and discoloration.

Reducing Your Exposure to Teeth Darkening Substances

Realistically you cannot stop the aging process, but you can reduce your exposure to the substances that can darken your teeth and help reduce the appearance of discolored and stained teeth. When you alter your diet to avoid foods that stain and darken your teeth, make sure you eat all the vitamins and minerals that keep you and your teeth healthy and do not compromise on your nutrition.

Correcting the Appearance of Darkened and Discolored Teeth

Tooth whitening toothpastes and over-the-counter whitening products can sometimes help, but the best results are achieved through a visit to your cosmetic dentist. Typically, in-office whitening options are safe and effective and produce dramatic results. In-office tooth whitening is one of the most requested cosmetic dental procedures in the United States and is a simple solution to tooth enamel discoloration and darkening that is also affordable. One tooth whitening treatment delivers impressive results. Take-home whitening kits for those individuals who prefer to whiten at home, allow you to control when and where you whiten, under the guidance of your cosmetic dentist's instructions.

The tooth whitening treatment that is just right for your needs will depend on various factors and after a thorough examination and evaluation your cosmetic dentist will recommend a whitening treatment plan designed to fit your specific needs.