Why do teeth become discolored? There are many reasons why teeth can go from white to less than bright white over time, and foods and drinks coffee, tea and red wine are some of the culprits of tooth staining. What do these beverages have in common? They can contain strong coloring pigments called pigments, which attach to the white part of the outside of the teeth (enamel). Smoking Two chemicals found in tobacco form stubborn stains: tar and nicotine. Tar is naturally black; nicotine itself is colorless, but when mixed with oxygen it turns into a yellowish, surface-staining substance. Age Beneath the hard white outer layer of teeth (enamel) is a softer area called dentin. Over time, as the outer layer of enamel thins due to brushing, etc., more of the yellowish dentin comes through. Trauma If the mouth has ever been impacted, then the teeth may change color. Because the body responds to injury by forming more dentin, the dentin layer is more yellow than the enamel. MedicationsDarkening of teeth may also be a side effect of certain antihistamines, antipsychotics, and hypertension medications. Infants and children with developing teeth who are exposed (either in utero or as infants) to antibiotics such as tetracycline and doxycycline may discolor their permanent teeth later in life. Chemotherapy and radiation to the head and neck can also darken teeth. How does teeth whitening work? Teeth whitening is a very simple process. Whitening products typically contain one of two dental bleaching agents (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaching agents break down stains into smaller pieces, which reduces pigment build-up and brightens teeth. Does bleaching work on all teeth? The answer is no. Bleach does not correct all types of discoloration, which is why it is important to talk to your dentist before deciding to whiten your teeth. For example, bleaching can work well on yellow teeth, but it may not work as well on brown teeth, and it may not work at all on gray shades of teeth. Also, bleaching agents do not work on veneers, crowns or fillings; nor do they work on tooth discoloration caused by medications or dental trauma. What are the options for teeth whitening? Talk to your dentist before you start whitening. If whitening is available, there are three ways to restore the sparkle to your teeth: Whitening toothpaste All toothpastes can help remove surface stains through the scrubbing action of mild abrasives on the teeth. Be careful to use safe whitening toothpastes that have special chemical or polishing substances to provide additional stain removal. Unlike bleaching agents, these products do not change the color of the teeth, but only remove surface stains. In-office bleaching This process is called chairside bleaching and usually requires only one office visit. The dentist will use a protective gel or rubber barrier to protect the gums before applying the bleach to the teeth; a special light or laser may also be used to enhance the effect of the bleach. Home whitening peroxide-containing whitening products actually bleach the tooth enamel. The product usually comes in a gel form and is placed in a tray that matches your own teeth. You can also use whitening patches that stick to your teeth to whiten your teeth at home. The concentration of bleach used at home is usually lower than that used by dentists in the office. Are there any side effects to teeth whitening? Some patients who use bleach may experience tooth sensitivity. This is often because the peroxide in the bleach penetrates the enamel to reach the soft dentin layer and irritates the nerves of the teeth. In most cases, the sensitivity is temporary. If this occurs, treatment can be delayed and then tried again. Overuse of whitening products can also damage enamel or gums, so be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions and stay in communication with your dentist.