Nothing is more beautiful than a sparkling smile. However, sometimes brown spots can appear on our teeth that could be cause for concern.
There are many things you can do to correct them. We’ll discuss everything from tartar buildup and medical conditions. Then we’ll show you what you can do together to restore your smile to its bright, healthy glory.
Common Causes Of Brown Spots on Teeth
Decay
Sometimes brown spots may be an indicator of dental decay. This occurs when there is an excessive intake of sugary and starchy food as well as sugary beverages.
These foods and drinks create plaque on the teeth’s surface that damages them over time.
If you don’t brush your teeth twice daily and clean between your teeth every day, plaque can build up on your tooth and cause damage to your enamel.
The brown spots could also be caused by the dentin beneath, which is naturally darker when exposed to worn enamel.
Tartar
Tartar is a term that’s often used. What is tartar? It is a substance that hardens on the teeth and becomes Tar. This substance is often yellow or brown in color.
Tartar can often be found along your gum line and between your teeth. Regular brushing with toothpaste won’t remove it. It is important to brush twice daily to remove plaque from your teeth.
Fluorosis
Fluoride is supposed help prevent tooth decay. But did you know that too many fluoride can cause enamel discoloration, particularly in children? Fluorosis can develop if you consume too much fluoride.
Fluorosis can be described as mild by the presence of white streaks or lines. However, more severe cases may include brown, gray or black spots and pits that are often found on top of irregularly shaped teeth.
Fluorosis, although it may appear as if the teeth are in serious condition, is actually a cosmetic condition. They are healthy unless another condition has affected them.
Celiac Disease
The American Dental Association states that Celiac disease patients often have weak tooth enamel.
The enamel can appear as translucent, with spots or bands that may appear in white, yellow, brown, and/or brown. The effects can be permanent so sufferers often opt for restorations to mask the condition.
Other conditions
High fevers or dental traumas can leave brown marks on the teeth. Rarely, however, other developmental conditions such as the skull and bones may also cause the same effect.
The enamel can be worn away by aging, which exposes the dentin underneath. Lifestyle habits such as smoking and alcohol consumption may not cause visible spots but can cause brown discoloration and staining.
Additionally, antibiotics from the tetracycline group can stain teeth. This is why they are not recommended for pregnant women and children with permanent teeth still developing.
Staining can also be caused by some mouthwashes, such as the prescription antiseptic mouthwash chlorhexidine-gluconate.
Treatment and Prevention
Ask your dentist to check your teeth for brown spots. Your oral health will be better if you can find the problem early. Your best option for at-home care is to improve your oral hygiene habits. Make sure you brush your teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste.
You should also floss daily using water flossers or other interdental cleaning devices. These steps together create a healthier environment for your teeth.
If your dentist believes it will improve your teeth’s color, you might also consider or other whitening methods. A brown spot or stain on your teeth can be embarrassing and make you feel self-conscious. There are cosmetic and non-surgical ways to get rid of those pesky stains.
Everybody deserves a bright, white smile. Talking to your dentist sooner is the best way to get a bright, white smile.