“Can water cause my teeth to discolor?”
I recently moved more into the city, and I noticed that my teeth were a little discolored. I don't really drink soda, and very rarely, I drink coffee. Could regular tap water be causing this discoloration?
8 Answers
Hmmm. Well water containing large amounts of fluoride may cause spots or discoloration in the developing teeth. It might be beneficial to have the tap water analyzed. But usually teeth aren’t permanently stained by water. Teeth naturally can get darker as we age and the pulp chamber becomes more calcified.
Water will not discolor your teeth. Assuming they have been recently professionally cleaned, the discoloration was probably there and you are just now noticing. Speak to a dentist about whitening options.
It's not likely but depending on where you live there may be heavy metals in the water. Certain foods cause staining of teeth especially fried foods- maybe your diet has changed?
Yes, if there is heavy mineralization in the city water it can yellow the teeth if there is heavy iron in the water, not unlike sprinklers will make the side of a home yellow from the iron in the irrigation water. There are other contaminants that can cause other colors to present as well. Home and Office Bleaching products can remove the stains. Also, regular brushing with Peroxide can reduce the stain accumulation. It is best in those areas to have your teeth cleaned and polished every 3 months instead of 6 or 12 months to help control the accumulation of the stain.
Vivian DeLuca, DMD, FAGD
Vivian DeLuca, DMD, FAGD
No
My initial feeling is that tap water has no effect upon discoloring teeth. However, anything is possible. You should find out the chemical constitution of your water supply. Then be sure to analyze whether you had coincidentally begun any new medications or anything new or different from your past routines. We sometimes find out some very surprising answers when we take the time to closely analyze our routines and habits.
No. It can not.
I have not heard of this happening before. Other factors may play a role in discoloration including smoking, tea drinking, wine drinking, and diet.
