Teeth Staining FAQs Answered


Stained teeth are a very common occurrence. There are a number of reasons behind teeth stains, and it’s important to understand them for your overall health.

Our experts have compiled all the vital frequently asked questions on teeth staining:

What is the cause of teeth staining?

Tooth discoloration happens for a number of reasons. There are also three main categories of tooth discoloration:

· Extrinsic tooth discoloration: this kind of tooth discoloration means that just the enamel, also known as the outermost layer of the teeth, is stained. These kinds of stains are caused by foods, beverages, tobacco.

· Intrinsic tooth discoloration: intrinsic tooth stains are when the stain is within the tooth. Such stains are resistant to OTC teeth whitening products. They appear gray and are caused by tooth decay, excess fluoride, tooth injury, and even certain medications. For some, genetics cause discoloration as well. A dentist will be able to determine its cause.

· Age-related teeth discoloration: as we age, the enamel of our teeth wears away; this results in a yellow stain. Age-related yellow stains can be a result of intrinsic and extrinsic reasons.

How can it be prevented?

Extrinsic teeth staining can be prevented by taking care of the food and drinks you consume. Habits like smoking also lead to stained teeth. Good oral care can prevent stains from developing as well.

Make sure you’re brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day and rinsing your mouth thoroughly. Regular dental checkups are also important for maintaining your pearly whites.

What foods stain the teeth?

Generally, food and drinks with a rich pigment stain the teeth. Berries, food with spices like turmeric, chili powder, coffee, tea, red wine, sodas, etc., all contribute to teeth discoloration. Acidic foods and drinks also erode the enamel, increasing tooth sensitivity and staining.

Are teeth whitening products effective?

There are many teeth whitening products available in the market, from toothpaste and toothbrushes to UV light and charcoal powder. While they might help with teeth stains, most of these products lead to teeth sensitivity. Their results are also not as great as having your teeth professionally whitened. Many people take to home remedies for removing teeth stains, which include the use of baking soda and lemon juice. This mixture is extremely harmful to your teeth.

Advanced Dental Center has been serving families in Germantown for the past 15 years. We provide high-quality dental care to adults and children. Visit us for teeth whitening in Germantown. Our Rockville dental clinic also provides periodontal maintenance. Get in touch with us at (301) 353-8890 to book an appointment. Read our COVID-19 policy before booking an appointment with us.

Comments