The 3 Types of Tooth Stains & How Your Dentist Can Help Get Rid of Them!

When it comes to your smile, your pearly whites are the most important part! A bright and healthy one can make a lasting impression on people and add to your self-confidence. Unfortunately, stains on your teeth may make affect your appearance and make you feel hesitant to flash a grin at others. The good news is that most discoloration can be fixed to reveal whiter teeth! Read on to learn about the three types of tooth stains and how you can achieve a beautiful, confident smile.

The Three Types of Tooth Stains

Yellowed and discolored teeth can be caused by a few reasons. The following are the different types and what causes them:

1. Extrinsic (Surface) Stains: These stains are caused by the buildup of plaque and tartar on the enamel. This most commonly happens if you tend to drink dark beverages (like coffee or tea), sticky dark foods (blueberries, blackberry jam, etc.), or if you use tobacco products.
2.  Intrinsic (Deeper) Stains: Occurring from within the teeth, intrinsic stains are more difficult to address or remove with over-the-counter whitening products. These stains usually appear grayish and are caused by certain medications, tooth damage or decay, genetics, and even excessive fluoride.  
3. Natural Aging: As time progresses, your teeth can begin to yellow as your enamel weakens and exposes dentin, which is naturally darker than enamel. Certain habits like continuous coffee consumption or an inconsistent dental routine can also diminish the brightness of your teeth over time.

How Can Your Dentist Help?

Luckily, there are so many current treatments to help you get the luminous smile of your dreams! Your dentist can help correct both types of teeth staining with a variety of treatments such as:

• Professional Teeth Whitening: This is one of the most popular ways to remove extrinsic staining. Your dentist will use a safe bleaching agent in combination with light or laser technology to break down discolored molecules and restore your teeth’s natural whiteness.
• Veneers: These thin porcelain shells cover up existing surface stains while also strengthening damaged enamel. Veneers are ideal for covering deep intrinsic staining that cannot be treated with surface whitening.
• Dental Bonding: This procedure is used to repair chips, cracks, or discoloration in the teeth. A composite resin material is applied and shaped to match your existing enamel color for a natural-looking result. This treatment is great for both intrinsic and extrinsic staining, especially if you would like to address other dental issues.

With the help of your dentist, you can pick the best option for correcting your discoloration so you can confidently show off your pearly whites again!

About the Author

The 3 Types of Tooth Stains & How Your Dentist Can Help Get Rid of Them!Dr. Carroll Butler has been serving the smiles of Kerrville for almost 30 years. He earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center Dental School and is a proud member of the American Dental Association and Texas Dental Association. He can help you create a bright, long-lasting smile with a full range of cosmetic dental services. To schedule a consultation, contact him through his website or call (830) 257-4900.