Teeth play a vital role in the smooth functioning of the body, without them digesting food can be a daunting task. They dissect the food substances and make it easier for us to consume and digest food. However, the same food or drinks that we consume can also have negative effects on the teeth, the tooth discolouration. Also known as teeth stains, is the end result of improper oral health combined with food or drink consumption. But they are not the only causes of teeth stains, in this blog let us discuss various causes, their effects, various ways to avoid them, also a few remedies to cure them, and various professional treatment options. At Dr. Sirajudeen Medical Centre, the best Dental clinic in Karama, with our expertise and experience gathered over the years, we specialize in addressing patients with tooth stain problems and offering reliable solutions.
Causes of teeth stains
Here is a list of all the possible causes of teeth stains:
- Foods and Drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, berries, sauces, and sodas. These items can significantly impact teeth colour when consumed regularly.
- Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco.
- Poor Dental Hygiene: Irregular brushing and flossing.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics (like tetracycline), antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications.
- Dental Materials: Some restorative materials, such as amalgam fillings.
- Ageing: Enamel wears down over time, exposing yellower dentin.
- Genetics:Natural variations in tooth colour.
- Trauma: Physical damage to teeth.
- Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride intake during childhood.
- Infections: Various infections can be caused during tooth development.
Types of teeth stains
Based on the above-mentioned causes of teeth stains, they are classified into 3 types
- Extrinsic stains: Extrinsic stains, as the name suggests are caused by external factors such as foods, drinks, and smoking. These are surface-level stains and can be regulated through proper oral care.
- Intrinsic stains: These stains occur due to internal factors like ageing, trauma or specific medications. Intrinsic stains are hard to treat and require professional attention for better results.
- Age-related stains: Age-related stains are the result of the gradual deterioration of the outer layer of enamel. As humans age, the teeth reveal the natural yellow dentin underneath the teeth.
Preventative tips to protect teeth from stains
Please note that both intrinsic and age-related stains cannot be treated or prevented, as the discolouration caused by these affects the internal structure of teeth. These preventative tips apply only to extrinsic stains.
- Brush your teeth regularly and make sure to floss them at least twice a day, to ensure that the external factors are effectively removed.
- Try to avoid consuming the above-mentioned food items and drinks on a regular basis, to prevent the enamel from discolouring.
- Schedule regular appointments for teeth cleaning in Karama, this plays a key role in keeping the teeth healthy and shiny.
- Use lime, orange, or any other citric-based substances to remove the plaque from the teeth.
- If you are experiencing persistent teeth stains even after following all the preventative measures, it is recommended to consult a dentist for professional advice
Treatments for teeth stains/ teeth discolouration
With the advancements in technology, there are various effective ways to treat all types of teeth stains including intrinsic and age-related stains. It is recommended to consult a professional medical expert to assess the teeth condition and suggest the best-suited treatment option for you. Here is a list of all the treatment options available:
- Whitening compounds: Doctors will recommend toothpaste, mouth wash or other chemical compounds to help you fight the stains and prevent discolouration.
- Over-the-counter products: These over-the-counter products include gels, strips, and rinsing solutions that are designed to effectively remove the stains.
- Professional whitening: Based on the intensity of the plaque, your doctor may also recommend other strong treatment options.
- Laser treatment: Laser treatment is the most effective way to tough tooth stains. Doctors use laser technology to clean the teeth.
Conclusion
All in all, teeth stains are some of the most common issues with a multitude of causes, ranging from food and drinks to genetics and medication. The first important step to address these stains is to understand the underlying causes and types of stains. We recommend you consult Dr. Sirajudeen Medical Centre for professional diagnosis and treatment options for different types of stains. This can help you address the discolouration in the initial stages and keep your teeth healthy in the long run. For more informative blogs on health, do visit our website.
