Tooth discoloration or staining may occur for several reasons. Some of them are due to age – the dentine inside the tooth gets thicker while the enamel becomes thinner, allowing the dentin to show through more. Professional cleaning can remove some types of discoloration. Other stains, however, may not be removable, even with professional cleaning. Bleaching gel will not help you remove these stains. For tooth discolouration solution, visit teeth whitening Winnipeg.
Causes of tooth discolouration
While we all know how to brush our teeth to prevent stains, what causes tooth discoloration? Food and drink, tobacco use, and poor dental hygiene can cause stains. Other causes of tooth discolouration include medications and medical treatments. Trauma to the teeth is an example of a traumatic situation that can discolor the teeth. If the stains are caused by trauma, they won’t be likely to return.
Teeth whitening
If you have discolored or stained teeth, you may consider a teeth whitening procedure. There are two types of discolouration: intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic stains are those that have been lodged deep within the tooth. Teeth bleaching will not remove these stains, and your dentist may recommend veneers, crowns, or bonding. Extrinsic stains, on the other hand, can be scrubbed off.
Intrinsic dental stains
Intrinsic dental stains are caused by the pigments present inside the tooth. These pigments may be brown, white, or gray. While most are naturally occurring and are caused by genetics, there are medical conditions, long-term use of antibiotics, exposure to excessive fluoride, and injury to the tooth. Intrinsic dental stains are an indication of deeper tooth decay. Therefore, it is necessary to visit a dentist for treatment.
Extrinsic dental stains
When it comes to dental stains, the most common types are intrinsic and extrinsic. Extrinsic stains develop on the surface of the tooth. They begin in the enamel layer and reach deeper into the tooth over time. Some common foods and drinks can cause extrinsic stains and certain medications and habits. For example, chewing tobacco and smoking can cause tooth discoloration.
Treatment options
If you’re concerned about the appearance of your teeth, there are many treatment options for discoloration and staining. In many cases, whitening toothpaste containing one percent peroxide or less may reduce the appearance of discoloration. However, if stains persist or worsen, you should visit a dentist for a thorough examination and treatment. At the same time, your dentist can advise you on preventing discoloration from reoccurring.
