You can’t put a price on the benefits of having a bright, beautiful smile. Unfortunately, many adults are embarrassed by stained or discolored teeth. Teeth come in many shades and tones naturally, and they change color over time. However, other factors can also lead to discoloration. You don’t have to live with brown or yellow teeth. Your cosmetic dentistry can turn back the clock using a personalized treatment plan with teeth whitening.
Types of Tooth Stains
Did you know that not all tooth stains are caused by the same thing? As a result, there’s no one-size-fits-all treatment to reverse discoloration. Different types of stains are classified as:
- Extrinsic Stains: Surface stains are caused by various factors, like poor oral hygiene, smoking, or drinking a lot of coffee.
- Intrinsic Stains: Intrinsic strains originate from within the tooth structure. They can be caused by certain medications, trauma, and other issues.
- Age-Related Stains: Enamel loss is part of the aging process, which can cause more of your yellowish dentin to be visible through your enamel.
Causes of Tooth Stains
Many factors contribute to tooth discoloration, including:
- Dark Foods & Drinks: Dark pigments from foods and drinks can stain your teeth.
- Tobacco: Tar and nicotine are common culprits of brown or yellow stains. Smoking can also increase your risk of cavities, gum disease, and tooth loss.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Poor brushing and flossing habits can cause plaque and tartar buildup, which can discolor your enamel.
- Trauma or Disease: Injuries to a tooth can cause it to turn gray, brown, or black.
- Medications: Certain medications can affect the color of your teeth, like those used for high blood pressure, allergies, and cancer.
Treating Tooth Stains
Your cosmetic dentist will examine your mouth to determine the source of your discoloration. Surface and age-related teeth stains can be improved using a professional whitening system. You have multiple options to treat stains, including:
- In-Office Teeth Whitening: Your teeth can get up to 8 shades whiter in an hour. After applying a protective barrier to your lips and gums, the whitening gel is placed on your teeth and activated using a special dental light for three 15-minute intervals.
- Take-Home Kits: You can achieve in-office results from the comfort of your home. Your dentist can provide you with a take-home kit to whiten your teeth gradually. You use the kit daily for 2 weeks.
Your smile can stay bright and beautiful for several months or years, depending on your aftercare routine. You can keep your smile its brightest by brushing and flossing. Avoid anything that may stain your teeth, like coffee or smoking. Visit your dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. They can also provide you with a touch-up kit to maintain your results.
About Dr. Philip Batson
Dr. Batson earned his dental degree at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Dentistry and has completed hundreds of hours of continuing education. He is a member of the American Dental Association, the Academy of General Dentistry, and many other professional organizations. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (573) 721-9039.