Noticing a sudden brown stain between your teeth can be terrifying — what could it possibly mean? However, before you start panicking, tooth discoloration between teeth is pretty common. In fact, there are a number of reasons why you may develop brown spots on the surface of your teeth.
While usually, the brown spot between teeth is treatable, it can indicate a serious underlying issue. In this blog, we will mention the possible causes of sudden brown stains that occur between teeth. Carry on reading and find out!
Reasons Sudden Brown Stains Between Teeth Develop
If you have noticed a brown spot on your teeth, there could be multiple factors behind it. Here are the common causes of tooth discoloration:
- Tartar:When tartar builds up on your teeth and along your gum line, it can appear brown or yellow. This is because the porous tartar deposit is actually quite porous and susceptible to staining. If this is the issue, you will need a professional dental cleaning or other dental procedures to eliminate it.
- Tooth Decay:The brown spot between your teeth could be a sign of tooth decay. Therefore, one or both of the teeth might have fallen victim to decay, resulting in the brown stain. If it does not receive dental attention, you may notice a cavity between teeth, which is an advanced form of tooth decay. Depending on the stage, you may need a dental filling or another treatment for tooth decay.
- Stains:The foods and beverages you enjoy consuming might be to blame for the sudden brown stains between your teeth. Many food items, including red wine, coffee, tea, etc., could cause tooth discoloration and affect your smile. A professional teeth whitening procedure could be useful in case of tooth discoloration. And, if the stain is stubborn, you can opt for dental veneers.
- Tobacco:Tooth staining is also attributed to tobacco usage. Hence, smoking, vaping, and other forms of tobacco could leave a significant mark on your teeth. Using tobacco usually causes discoloration behind the front teeth, but you may notice sudden brown stains between your teeth as well. You may want to consider dental polishing or other cosmetic procedures to eliminate discoloration due to tobacco.
- Medications:You may notice staining and discoloration between your teeth due to certain medications, especially liquid medicines. If you noticed the brown spots on your teeth after you started taking a new medication, talk to your healthcare provider to discuss if it could be responsible.
- Fluorosis:Exposure to excessive fluoride can lead to fluorosis, which can cause tooth discoloration. In children, especially, consuming too much fluoride is linked to brown stains on teeth. The dentist will thoroughly examine your teeth to determine the best course of action to get rid of this condition.
- Age:As you age, your teeth tend to become weak as the dental enamel wears away. As a result, you may notice brown stains between your teeth and on other spots. This is because aging increases the possibility of your teeth absorbing color from the foods and beverages you consume. Your dentist can recommend the best treatment based on your condition.
Preventing Tooth Discoloration
You can prevent tooth discoloration in the first place by practicing the following tips:
- Using the correct technique, brush your teeth twice every day.
- Opt for a toothbrush that has soft bristles.
- Use interdental brushes to clean the area between teeth.
- Floss regularly.
- Refrain from smoking and tobacco usage.
- Attend your regular dental cleanings and examinations
- Rinse your mouth with the help of water or alcohol-free mouthwash after eating something sweet or acidic.
Takeaway
If you notice sudden brown stains between your teeth, it could be due to tartar, decay, medications, tobacco use, and more. Our Smile 4ever Family Dentistry experts have the experience and skills you need for healthy teeth. Dial 281-213-5668 to book an appointment with the best dental team in town. You can also visit us at 14715 TC Jester Blvd Houston, Texas 77068.