Having tarnished teeth isn’t a good look. Everyone wants a gleaming bright smile, but our teeth naturally pick up stains over time. Whether from our morning coffee, evening glass of wine, or simply getting older, dental discolouration is a common concern.
Understanding Different Types of Stains
Tooth stains fall into three main categories. The first type, extrinsic stains, affects the outer enamel layer and comes from everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea, or red wine. These surface-level stains often respond well to professional cleaning and whitening treatments.
The Challenge of Internal Staining
Intrinsic stains develop inside the tooth structure itself, making them more challenging to address. These internal discolourations can result from childhood antibiotic use, excessive fluoride exposure, or tooth trauma. While some respond to professional whitening, others might require dental veneers or bonding for the best results.
How Ageing Affects Your Smile
Age-related staining combines both external and internal factors. As we get older, our enamel naturally thins, revealing more of the yellowish dentin underneath. This process and years of exposure to staining substances create a distinct type of discolouration that often requires a customised treatment approach.
Your Teeth Brightening Options
- At-home treatments like whitening toothpaste and strips can help with mild surface stains, though it usually takes weeks for the results to appear and requires consistent use.
- Professional treatments offer more dramatic results, with options ranging from custom-fitted whitening trays to in-office laser procedures that can brighten teeth by several shades in just one visit.
- For severe or stubborn stains, especially intrinsic ones, dental veneers offer a long-lasting solution that completely transforms the appearance of affected teeth.
Prevention and Maintenance
To maintain your newly brightened smile, there are some simple things you can do. These include drinking staining beverages through a straw, maintaining excellent oral hygiene, and scheduling regular dental cleanings.
Ready to Whiten Your Smile?
If you’re concerned about tooth discolouration, contact Dental On Falconer to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. They can recommend the most effective treatment based on your specific situation and help you achieve the beautiful results you’re looking for!
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