Expert: Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S. - 10/26/2005

Question
Dr. Scherr-

Whenever I go for my regular dental cleaning every 6 months, I have terrible teeth staining. The staining is dark in color and resembles  smokers teeth. Then after cleaning my teeth are white again. It takes about a half hour to remove the staining.
I told my dentist that I dont drink coffee, dont smoke, dont drink tea, no wine, no dark colored foods. None whatsoever. I am reasonably healthy. I drink lots of water. I do use albuterol inhaler for asthma.
So whats causing my teeth to stain like that?  Dentist was puzzled. The ony dark colored foods I include in my diet are cinnamon, whole grains,  and whole wheat pasta. The staining can get bad.

Thanks, Todd

Answer
Todd,

The fact that your teeth look white again after a cleaning indicates that stain develops on the surface of your teeth from somewhere.  If the stain was internal, it would remain following the cleaning.  I'd suggest keeping a food diary for a week or two.  Write down everything that goes into your mouth, food, drink, supplements, prescriptions, mouthrinse, everything!  Then let your dentist review the diary.  If the patient is thorough, the problem will typically evidence itself.

Best wishes,

Steve