Many people think only smokers and old people get discolored teeth. The truth is there are many reasons your teeth may lose their pearly white appeal.

Here are a few of the reasons you may need teeth whitening in Orland Park, IL.

1. Strong Colored Food and Drinks

Citrus fruits and some vegetables can stain your teeth. Some of your favorite drinks can do the same; for example, tea, coffee, sodas, wine, and other alcoholic beverages. Some may even be clear, but their acidity will eventually cause your teeth to lose their whiteness.

2. Tobacco Products

Chewing tobacco or smoking is one of the leading reasons for tooth discoloration.

3. Bad Dental Habits

Not brushing, flossing, or gargling with antiseptic mouthwash can discolor your teeth because of failure to remove plaque and stains from food and drinks.

4. Diseases and Medicines

Enamel or hard surface of your teeth, and dentin or the material under the enamel, can be affected by some diseases, causing discoloration. Some treatments for diseases may also leave your teeth looking dark or yellowish. Chemotherapy is known to affect tooth color. Some treatments for high blood pressure may also do the same.

5. Age

Getting on in years may also make your teeth less white. It is just part of the natural aging process.

6. Genes

Some people inherit their enamel characteristics, causing their teeth to be brighter or the opposite.

7. Fluoride

Some areas have water with high fluoride levels. There are people who use a lot of fluoride through supplements or toothpaste. Excess fluoride may cause your teeth to become discolored.

8. Trauma

This is more common in children. A blow to the face, such as due to a fall, can affect enamel formation, causing the affected tooth to have a darker color.

As you can see from these examples, there are more than one or two ways to have discoloration problems with your teeth. See your dentist and ask about whitening options if you would like to have better-looking teeth.