Your lifestyle, food, habits, and dental care practices reflect the colour of your teeth. Tooth discolouration is classified into two types: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are natural enamel surface stains that accumulate over time. Dark-coloured foods and beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine can contribute to staining them. Extrinsic discolouration can also result from using tobacco products. Intrinsic stains occur on the dentin or the inner layer of teeth. These deeper stains are more stubborn to remove than surface enamel stains (extrinsic). Excessive use of fluoride and certain medications commonly causes intrinsic discolouration. The following are the most common causes of tooth discolouration: Genetics We all have unique tooth colours and enamel structures that determine tooth colour. Some people are born with thicker teeth or darker enamel than others. Aging The outer layer of tooth enamel gradually wears down as people age, resulting in tooth discolouration and yellowing. Certain medications Teeth discolouration can be caused by tetracycline, antihistamines, antipsychotics, and blood pressure medicines. Old dental restorations Because amalgam restorations (silver cavity fillings) contain sulphide, they can cause black tooth discolouration. Also, previous tooth fillings might wear down over time. Dark-pigmented foods and drinks It’s no surprise that the foods you eat leave a lasting effect on your teeth. It’s essential to think about how they affect your health, especially foods with dark colours or high acidity. Examples are coffee, tea, berries, sugary drinks, wine, dark sauces, Excessive fluoride Excessive fluoride use, particularly drinking from fluoridated tap water, can cause discolouration or leave white streaks on teeth. Cancer treatment Chemotherapy and radiation may have potential causes of tooth discolouration. Smoking Nicotine makes your teeth brownish or yellowish. This substance can cause other oral health problems.