Stains on teeth can naturally impact a person’s ability to smile, thus hiding their teeth from their family and friends to avoid feeling judged and embarrassed. This could be because your oral hygiene routine may not be as effective as you’d hoped, and you’re looking for new and more effective ways to get rid of the stains on your teeth.

Fortunately, there are several tried-and-tested treatments and steps you can start adopting right away to help begin lifting those stains from your teeth. It’s worth noting, however, that different sorts of stains appear and that several treatment solutions are available to restore your pearly whites.

What Are The Different Types Of Staining?

There are typically three types of staining, which can naturally occur depending on your lifestyle choices and what you feed your mouth. 

  • Intrinsic Staining – Intrinsic staining happens when the tooth’s internal structure darkens (known as the enamel), breaking through the yellow dentin and altering the colour and tone of the teeth. This can happen as a result of nerve or enamel erosion.
  • Extrinsic Staining — Dark solids and liquids discolour the exterior or external structure. After consuming certain meals and beverages like coffee, sodas, and fruits like berries, the pigments that these ‘staining’ foods contain causes those stains to form. Smoking can also cause extrinsic discolouration.
  • Age-Related Staining — As you become older, both intrinsic and extrinsic staining will occur. This means that the underlying dentin will be yellow with time, and your enamel will thin.

So, How Do I Get Rid Of Stains On My Teeth?

Modern dentistry has uncovered many treatments that can help lift the stains off of your teeth. If you’re seeking dental treatment, consider one of the following:

Professional Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening treatments have been around for many years, and the most effective choice is in-office dental bleaching which requires a single appointment visit at the dentist. The dentist will apply a bleaching chemical to lighten the colour of your teeth and break through any stubborn stains with a laser. This typically lasts for a period of 30 minutes or more.

Dental Veneers

Dental veneers are fitted on the surface of your eight front teeth to hide any niggling imperfections to your smile through thin-shaped shells to conceal tough stains. Veneers aren’t just beneficial for stains, but any chips and cracks that are visible that you may not want to show. Veneers are typically made of porcelain material, shaded and moulded to match your natural smile. 

Dental Bonding

Dental bonding is the application of coloured material to teeth to improve their look. Bonding is a cosmetic dentistry process that can be used to repair discoloured, chipped, or fractured teeth.

Dental Crowns

Applying dental crowns is a time-consuming treatment to complete, but the aesthetic outcomes are nearly faultless. If you have big fillings, deep stains, wish to change the contour of your teeth or have tooth misalignment, crowns are a viable choice, designed to not only protect your teeth but cover them with a new look.

Can I Remove Stains At Home?

Most importantly, it is important that you avoid drinks that are acidic and that contain tannins. Coffee and soda are two of the most common causes of discolouration. Acids and sugars in them can cause deterioration and the growth of germs. Coffee and soft drinks should be consumed in moderation as they contain tannins which is a premier staining property. Limit yourself to one per day as a treat, but make sure to rinse your mouth with water afterwards to avoid sugar and preservatives becoming trapped between your teeth.

It is highly recommended that you replace staining options with water. Water contains traces of fluoride that can keep your enamel strong and keep the stains away.

If you’re seeking to get rid of stains on your teeth, then consult your dentist on the available options for a whiter smile today! Do you have any questions related to teeth stains? Reach out to our Hornsby dentists.