Why Some People's Teeth Stain Faster No Matter How Well They Brush

Two people can care for their teeth the same way, but one might see their teeth stain faster. It’s true. You can brush and floss daily, give up coffee, and still struggle to keep your teeth white.

Stained teeth are a common dental problem. The causes of discolored teeth are varied, from what you eat to genetic factors. So, yes, your teeth might stain faster than those of other people due to your DNA.

At Greenwich Dentistry in Greenwich, Connecticut, we help patients prevent and treat tooth discoloration with personalized care options. Such options include professional teeth whitening and enamel-safe cleanings.

Here are some common reasons your teeth might be more prone to staining than others.

4 reasons some teeth stain more easily than others

You can practice excellent oral hygiene and still feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle against stained teeth if your teeth structure or habits work against you. Here’s why.

Thin enamel

Enamel is the hard, protective layer of your teeth. It’s naturally white but wears away; as it thins, a yellowish undertone shows through. This underlayer is called dentin. When you have more dentin than enamel, food and beverage stains become more visible.

Enamel thins due to:

Age
Genetics
Acidic food and drinks
Overbrushing or using abrasive toothpaste.

Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid toothpaste with gritty particles, as they may wear away your enamel.

Porous teeth

Some people have teeth that absorb stains like a sponge. Slight differences in the microstructure of your tooth enamel can make it more absorbent.

A study found that enamel that’s more porous than others can cause it to soak up staining agents more easily. That means two people can share the same brushing and flossing routine, but one might see tooth stains faster thanks to the structure of their enamel.

Diet and medications

You might be familiar with the standard culprits of teeth staining, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. But did you know that soy sauce or curry could stain your teeth?

Besides food and drinks, certain medications, notably tetracycline, can also darken your teeth.

How you breathe

Breathing through your mouth dries out your saliva. Among its other functions, saliva helps break down particles that cause stains. Staying well-hydrated can help.

Bottom line

If your teeth seem to stain more easily than others, it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It might mean your teeth need a little extra care or a different approach.

At Greenwich Dentistry, we can help you identify the root cause and find a plan that works to brighten your smile. Call our Cos Cob office today to schedule your appointment.