Why Do I Have Such Stained Teeth?

Many patients are frustrated to see a yellow, dingy appearance across their teeth despite their dedicated efforts to floss and brush every day. The truth is, even the best oral care patients suffer from tooth stains. Not only are there different types of teeth stains, but there are a variety of factors that cause them. Some types of stains can be easily removed with better brushing habits or avoiding certain foods and drinks. Others, however, may require professional teeth whitening treatments or certain cosmetic dentistry services to get the bright smile they desire. The good news is that regardless of how you acquired your unsightly dental discoloration, there are ways to reverse it and help you attain the white, youthful and confident smile you deserve now.

Types of Tooth Discoloration

Colgate explains the three main types of teeth stains as extrinsic stains, intrinsic stains and age-related stains. Determining which type of staining you have on your smile is the first step towards finding an effective remedy.

Extrinsic: These are the most common stains that develop due to the dark-colored foods and drinks we consume over time. Coffee, red wine, dark sodas, berries and certain sauces are culprits to extrinsic tooth staining. Smoking is also considered a type of extrinsic discoloration.

Intrinsic: These stains are deeper within the tooth. They are often stains that were acquired in childhood or even birth. Examples of intrinsic tooth staining include tetracycline antibiotics (taken as a child or in a mother during pregnancy), fluoride over-exposure, trauma to permanent tooth or dentinogenesis imperfecta (rare congenital condition).

Age-Related: Sadly, some dental stains can’t be stopped. As we age, the outer white layer of our teeth wears thin. This exposes the yellow dentin layer found underneath, which can give older adults a yellow or dark hue to their smile.

How a Cosmetic Dentist Treats Teeth Stains

For most patients who have extrinsic tooth stains, a professional grade whitening treatment is highly effective. Though temporary, professional whitening can lighten your smile by several shades and give your appearance a refreshed, healthy and even younger look.

If you have stubborn extrinsic stains, intrinsic staining or age-related discoloration, teeth whitening may not be as effective. In such cases, you may consider other options in cosmetic dentistry, such as porcelain veneers and composite bonding. These are painless ways to permanently hide discoloration within your smile.

Learn more about how we can brighten your smile at Carolina Commons Dentistry. Not only do we specialize in elite preventative and restorative dental care, but we also have a full menu of cosmetic services to address dark, stained or yellow teeth at any phase of life.

Posted on behalf of Carolina Commons Dentistry