Tooth discoloration can stem from a variety of causes that include poor oral hygiene, dental problems, medications, and even aging. Tooth discoloration is also a product of several biological factors that need to be identified. Dental professionals have identified three main types of teeth stains. Let’s take a look at all of them in detail:

Extrinsic Teeth Stains

Extrinsic teeth stains are caused due to the discoloration of your tooth enamel. Your tooth enamel is the protective hard tissue present on the surface of your teeth. It prevents the teeth from damage by external factors. Overconsumption of certain foods or if you’re on medications, the enamel can be affected and stained. Food and drinks like red pasta sauce, red wine, alcohol, berries, tea and coffee can stain your teeth. Most of these foods, especially some fruits, are rich in a pigment called Chromogens. The tooth enamel absorbs these pigments that are left behind in the mouth. You can use a fluoride or whitening toothpaste to deal with extrinsic stains. Apart from this, make sure to brush and rinse your mouth soon after you consume tea, coffee, berries, red wine, and curry.

Intrinsic Teeth Stains

Unlike extrinsic teeth stains, intrinsic teeth stains are the staining of the dentin (the tissue that is directly beneath the enamel). This occurs from the conditions born inside the mouth. Cavities, trauma, decay, gum disease, etc., are some of the reasons behind intrinsic teeth stains. Since intrinsic teeth stains are usually a result of some dental issue, it is imperative to consult a dentist. You may go for a whitening treatment once the condition is treated.

Age-Related Stains

As you get older, your dentin gets darker and the tooth enamel becomes thinner. Age-related stains come up with both intrinsic and extrinsic tooth discoloration. Age-related tooth discoloration involves a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic dental stains. The use of professional teeth whitening, as well as treatments like porcelain veneers and tooth bonding can be considered to prevent age-related stains.  

Good oral health habits can go a long way in preventing teeth staining. If you are facing the problem of stains, then you can consult our dentists, who can provide you with the  treatment depending on the nature of your condition and type of teeth stain.