Teeth stains can appear on Youngsters and Elders, and these spots can come up in different colours and deepness… “How do I get rid of stains on my teeth?” is one of the most common questions dentists get in their daily appointments.
In this entry, discover how you can get rid of those uncomfortable stains on your teeth.
Types of teeth stains
Teeth stains can be extrinsic (superficial, in the enamel) or intrinsic (below the enamel, on the dentin).
Depending on the type, stains can be more or less treatable. Naturally, the extrinsic are the easiest to treat and may even disappear with at-home procedures. Intrinsic stains can usually be mitigated at the dentist’s office. But not permanently entirely removed.
How do teeth get stained?
Teeth stains can be yellow, White, Brown, black, and even purple. And the reasons for these stains to appear are variable:
- Foods and drinks: dark-coloured ailments like coffee, tea, wine, blueberries, among others.
- Tobacco (smoking or chewing)
- Poor oral hygiene and tartar buildup
- Tooth decay or cavities
- Tooth injury (usually only the affected tooth is stained)
- Tetracycline antibiotics and other medication
- Fluoride excess
- Age
As you can see, teeth staining is pretty usual and, not necessarily, a sign of poor hygiene. The good news is almost always there’s something you can do about it.
Let’s look at your options for treating stains on your teeth.
How to get rid of stains on your teeth
Depending on the deepness of your stains, you may opt for different treatments.
In-office treatments
These include cleansing and whitening processes:
- Tartar removal is mandatory for anyone trying to prevent their teeth from staining. There’s no magic solution there, just good old-fashioned hygiene.
- Professional stain removal can also work wonders thanks to innovative procedures like airflow, which combines air, water, and light powder to remove stubborn stains.
- A professional whitening process is quick and effective. It will help with intrinsic stains and tone clearing. You can have this procedure whatever your level of staining is, and it will be safe and favourable. Plus, it will take just around an hour.
At-home treatments
These include over-the-counter treatments and professional guided at-home treatments:
- Whitening pastes and strips: while they may help with tartar removal and light extrinsic stains, they may also be abrasive to your enamel. Thus, making it even more vulnerable. So, our advice is to use them with care and only if you can’t Access other treatments.
- At-home professional whitening: with the help of customised trays and whitening gels, your dentist can prescribe a treatment for you to practice at home. It’s mildly effective on intrinsic stains but may take considerably longer than in-office treatments.
Other ways you can improve the colour of your teeth
For preventing further staining on your teeth, you may:
- Stop smoking
- Wash your teeth as soon as you consume staining foods
- Keeping your oral hygiene on point
The truth is that avoiding all teeth stains is almost impossible. However, next time you ask yourself: “how can I get rid of stains on my teeth?” you know there’s more than one option out there.
I hope this was helpful and that after the procedure you choose, you can show that beautiful smile again! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to our Hornsby dentists.
