Stained Teeth: Types, Causes & How To Remove Stains on Teeth
What Are The Various Types Of Tooth Discoloration?
Tooth discoloration (or tooth stains) can result from several factors including surface stains and changes in tooth material or a combination of both. Dentists identify 3 main types of tooth discoloration.
Extrinsic Tooth Stain: Extrinsic tooth stains are those that occur on the tooth’s surface. They occur when stain particles, including colored residues from drink or food build up in the protein film that covers the tooth’s enamel. Extrinsic stains are usually caused by regularly consuming tea or coffee, tobacco, wine or colas. These stains are easily treated with whitening toothpaste, regular dental cleanings, and brushing teeth consistently.
Intrinsic Tooth Stain: Intrinsic tooth stains occur below the tooth surface and are the result of tooth-staining particles seeping through the tooth exterior and build up in the enamel. Intrinsic tooth stains are more difficult to remove, however, it is possible. Intrinsic tooth stains might require bleach treatments, either with at-home chemical whitening products or by a professional.
Age-Related Tooth Stains: Tooth stains related to age show effects of both extrinsic and intrinsic tooth discoloration. Dentin, which is your tooth’s core tissue, naturally yellows with time, causing your teeth to show a yellow discoloration. As we get older, the enamel on our teeth thins, and the dentin shows through. Most adult’s teeth will discolor as a result of age-related tooth stains.
What Causes Stained Teeth?
As we have discussed, there are several factors that can cause teeth to stain, including certain foods, tobacco, aging, and biological factors. Some factors can be prevented while others cannot.
Food and Drink: Certain drinks like coffee, red wine, colas and certain foods can cause tooth discoloration.
Tobacco: Smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco can cause tooth discoloration
Poor Dental Hygiene: Poor oral care, for instance, inadequate flossing and brushing can cause tooth discoloration.
Disease or Trauma: Trauma, disease or illness that affects the development of enamel in children can cause tooth discoloration.
How Do I Remove Tooth Stains?
When trying to remove tooth stains, it is important to know what kind of stain you are dealing with. Research shows that some staining particles remain on the enamel surface while others penetrate the surface and settle below the enamel. We recommend consulting your Torrance dentist to discuss best options for removing stains.
About Select Dental Office
Select Dental Office is a top-rated Torrance dentist provider with over a decade of experience. To learn more about the Torrance dentist, please visit him at his website www.selectdentaloffice.com/.