Teeth typically become discolored over the years and with natural use. If you’ve started to notice any stains throughout your smile, you might start considering dental treatment to help conceal any mild imperfections. However, not all tooth discolorations are equal, meaning they won’t have the same ways to resolve them. Keep reading to learn the different types of dental stains and how your dentist can address them.
The Main 3 Types of Tooth Stains
Dental discoloration is usually due to one of the three following reasons:
- Extrinsic Staining – This is the type of stain that occurs on the outer surface of teeth, which typically happens due to overexposure to dark-colored foods and beverages, or especially tobacco products. The good news is that this is one of the easier kinds of discolorations to treat.
- Intrinsic Staining – Instead of being on the top side of the teeth, intrinsic stains are underneath the surface. These are slightly more difficult to address since the discoloration is within the enamel, which could be due to excessive use of fluoride.
- Age-Related Stains – This kind of staining is a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic discoloration. The dentin, or center of the tooth, starts to show through the thinning tooth enamel over time, which often causes those who are older to have more discolored teeth.
How Can I Lift Dental Discoloration?
Regardless of the level of tooth stains, you might be able to address your situation with a range of cosmetic dental treatment options. The most common and popular kind of professional teeth whitening is that it can be completed relatively quickly, and it’s especially helpful for extrinsic discoloration. While you can get store-bought whitening products, your dentist will tailor your treatment specifically for your unique smile while keeping your gums safe, all while using higher-quality materials for greater results.
For intrinsic or age-related tooth staining, you may have to consider more than teeth whitening. Options like direct bonding or veneers offer more dramatic cosmetic results, as they can completely conceal the discoloration. Of course, you’ll need to discuss this with your dentist so they can help carefully plan the proper steps to improve your smile. With their help, you’ll be one step closer to showing off the pearly whites you deserve!
About the Practice
Our team at Devonshire Dental of Boston is proud to serve patients with a full range of smile-enhancing solutions, including professional teeth whitening. For patients whose stains don’t respond to whitening alone, we also offer veneers and direct bonding to help you achieve a smile you’ll love. Ready to find out which option is right for you? Contact us or call 617-350-7474 to schedule your appointment today so that we can help you put your best smile forward.