So, let’s say your teeth are starting to discolor and lose their whiteness. In that case, you probably want to treat them as soon as possible. Even so, however, it’s essential that you know about the types of tooth stains first. Otherwise, you may not get the most effective cosmetic dentistry. Fortunately enough, your Forest dentist can help you with this issue. Read on to learn about the three kinds of tooth stains and how best to treat them.
What are the Types of Tooth Stains?
Roughly speaking, tooth stains have three types: extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related. Their details are listed below:
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic stains are those that sit on the surface of teeth. They occur when stain agents build up in the protein that covers tooth enamel.
In most cases, extrinsic stains are caused by pigments from various foods and drinks — items like coffee, wine, berries, etc. However, they can also stem from bad oral habits like smoking.
Intrinsic Stains
Unlike extrinsic stains, intrinsic ones occur below a tooth’s surface. In particular, they take place when stain particles get beneath dental exteriors and build up in enamel.
Often enough, intrinsic stains result from excess fluoride, dental injuries, genetics, and similar factors.
Age-Related Stains
Age-related teeth stains combine features of both intrinsic and extrinsic ones.
The core cause of age-related stains is your dentin. You see, this tooth layer naturally yellows over time. Furthermore, it becomes more visible as your tooth enamel thins. Combined with external factors like certain foods and smoking habits, they can be pretty glaring.
How Do Dentists Treat Tooth Stains?
Thankfully, dentists have ways to treat the three types of tooth stains. They include the following:
- Teeth Whitening: This treatment bleaches tooth enamel white by six-to-eight shades, whether done in-office or through a take-home kit. As such, it’s an ideal procedure for removing extrinsic tooth stains that aren’t too deep.
- Porcelain Veneers: Instead of removing discoloration, veneers cover it with their porcelain layers. Given that fact, they tend to work well for intrinsic and age-related tooth stains.
As you can see, knowing the types of tooth stains helps you find the right treatment for them. Therefore, contact your dentist about your options in the coming days.
About the Practice
Crossroads Family Dentistry is based in Forest, VA. As led by Drs. Steven Hatch, James Peery, Samuel Woolwine, and Carole Roberts, our practice combines quality dental care with a low-stress experience. To that end, we offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry that’s just right for you. When necessary, we can also perform emergency procedures for urgent issues. For more information or to book a visit, reach us at our website or by phone at (434)-841-1704.