Discolored TeethArlington Heights, IL

Discolored and stained teeth can lend a more aged appearance and be the cause of embarrassment for many patients. Cosmetic and restorative dentist Dr. Brent Engelberg offers a range of treatment options to brighten your smile and restore a more youthful look. Your treatment will depend on the root cause of your tooth staining and your desired result.

Common Reasons for Discolored Teeth

There are a range of reasons for discoloration and staining of the teeth. Dr. Engelberg will thoroughly examine your dental health, discuss your cosmetic goals, and determine the most effective treatment option for your unique needs.

  • Genetics
  • Medical conditions
  • Certain medications, such as tetracycline
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Dark beverages and foods such as wine, tea, and coffee

Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth in Arlington Heights, IL

For patients with otherwise healthy teeth, Zoom teeth whitening can remove stains from common lifestyle habits and the natural darkening that occurs with aging. Dr. Engelberg offers an in-office treatment that can provide dramatic results for most patients with little to no side effects, such as increased sensitivity. Dr. Engelberg also offers a customized take-home option, which can be used alone for a more gradual result or after your Zoom in-office treatment to maximize and maintain a bright, white smile.

If it is determined that a tooth whitening treatment is not an option for your specific type of tooth discoloration or cosmetic needs, Dr. Engelberg may recommend a cosmetic dental procedure that can provide more permanent results:

  • Tooth bonding: for white spots that are often difficult to treat, cosmetic tooth bonding may be used to resurface the tooth and provide an even color tone
  • Dental veneers: using porcelain or minimal-prep veneers, Dr. Engelberg can make over a dull, discolored smile
  • Dental crowns: for a single stained tooth, a dental crown can be color-matched to your remaining teeth for an aesthetic result

Discolored Teeth FAQs

Why do teeth turn discolored after an injury? 

After dental trauma, you may notice that your tooth appears grey or brown. A tooth injury can affect the pulp within the tooth. The dental pulp comprises blood vessels and nerves that keep teeth alive. Damage to the pulp may lead to tooth discoloration when bleeding within the tooth affects the tooth surface

How do antihistamines cause teeth discoloration?

Antihistamines can reduce saliva production, making removing staining substances from teeth more difficult. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria from teeth. Therefore, taking allergy medicines can increase the risk of tooth stains. 

Do I have discolored teeth because of a vitamin deficiency?

Sometimes, a lack of Vitamin B12 or Vitamin D can cause yellow or discolored teeth. Vitamin B12 helps fight plaque and tartar that build up on the teeth. If you do not have enough B12, you can experience discolored teeth due to bacterial buildup. Vitamin D can help prevent gum disease. Low levels of Vitamin D can contribute to brown or yellowed teeth. 

Why are worn teeth discolored?

If you experience tooth wear, you may notice that your worn teeth are a different color than other teeth. As the outer layer of your teeth wear down, it exposes dentin. Dentin is an underlayer that is a darker color than the enamel. Worn teeth appear darker because of the dentin.

Why are there white spots on my teeth?

White discoloration on teeth can be a sign of demineralization. Demineralization occurs when your teeth lose natural minerals that keep teeth strong. Fluroide can help restore natural minerals to your enamel. Children can also experience fluorosis, or an overesposure to fluoride, that creates white spots on the teeth. 

How does sugar cause tooth discoloration?

Consuming sugary foods and drinks can contribute to discolored teeth. Harmful bacteria feed on sugars left in the mouth. Over time, a bacterial film called plaque can cover and discolor the teeth. 

Schedule an Appointment

Are you ready for a confidence boost with a bright, white smile? Come in for a consultation with Dr. Engelberg and learn more about your treatment options. Call our office at (847) 230-9703 today.

Arlington Heights Smiles serves many local communities near you, including Long Grove, Deerfield, Northbrook, Buffalo Grove, and many other local Chicago suburbs.