We take our smiles for granted until a stain makes an appearance, giving our teeth a dull look. It is only natural for teeth to discolor over time, which usually happens due to daily exposure to teeth-staining factors and aging. While there are multiple factors behind all types of teeth stains, one thing is for sure: nobody enjoys them! You can visit your dentist for a diagnosis and procedure, be it teeth whitening or dental veneers. Learn all about teeth stains and how to get rid of them in this post!
Different Types of Teeth Stains
Our teeth are prone to developing different types of stains. Over the years, multiple internal as well as external factors can lead to discoloration, which affects the overall appearance of your smile. Below, we have listed the different types of teeth stains:
- Extrinsic Stains
Dental enamel is the outermost layer of your tooth, and it is extremely susceptible to stain since it comes in contact with foods and beverages, among other causes of discoloration. When a mark forms on the outer surface of your tooth, it could mean you have an extrinsic stain. The enamel gradually absorbs the pigments of the teeth-staining products, leading to stains.
The good thing about extrinsic stains is that they remain on the surface of your teeth, which means your dentist can help you achieve a white smile in no time.
- Intrinsic Stains
After extrinsic, we have intrinsic stains on teeth – which, as the name suggests, are deeper than the tooth enamel. On many occasions, discoloration reaches the sensitive layer under the enamel known as dentin. That’s not all; dentin has a yellow hue, which means it has a darker appearance in comparison to enamel. Hence, enamel thinning, poor oral hygiene, and other factors can expose dentin, leading to intrinsic stains.
It is more challenging to remove intrinsic stains, but your dentist will have the ideal solution for you. You may need to add a product containing an active teeth-whitening agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. However, it is always best to consult your dentist and proceed with adequate treatment.
- Age-Related Stains
As you age, your body does not remain as healthy as before, and your oral health will suffer as a result. So, aging might cause your enamel to wear away, leaving your dentin layer exposed. Factors like exposure to sugar, acids, and a teeth-staining diet, as well as other causes, including medical conditions, may be responsible for discolored teeth.
Though there are three types of teeth stains, it might be challenging to control age-related ones. You might need to undergo the same treatments as intrinsic stains in order to get rid of the stains on your teeth.
How To Remove Teeth Stains?
Keeping up with your oral care is crucial for multiple reasons, but avoiding all types of teeth stains is a significant one. Here are some ways to get rid of teeth stains:
- Use a fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth two times a day, and two minutes each time — at least.
- Make it a habit to floss at least once a day to avoid stains and more.
- Make sure you drink water or rinse your mouth right after having anything that might stain your teeth.
- Always stay consistent with your regular dental examinations and checkups.
- Opt for professional teeth whitening.
What’s Next?
Extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related teeth stains are the three types of discoloration that take place. You can get help from a dental expert to restore the brightness of our style in an effective manner.
At Houston Dental Implant Center, your oral health is our priority; talk to us at (713) 664-1661 or give us a visit at 4548 Bissonnet St., Suite 300, Bellaire, Texas 77401.