How to Remove Stains from Teeth: The Steps to a Brighter Smile
While not directly harmful to oral health, tooth stains can greatly impact your smile’s appearance — and your confidence. Luckily, there are effective whitening treatments available to bring the sparkle back into your smile!
To determine how to remove stains from teeth, one must first understand the causes behind discoloration, as well as the difference between the various kinds of tooth stains.
What Causes Tooth Stains?
Tooth stains commonly appear in various irregular shades, though they can also take on a translucent look. The causes behind these stains varies greatly by person, but can potentially include:
- A carbohydrate-heavy diet
- Certain medications
- Impact trauma, such as from sports
- Particular foods and drinks — namely coffee, tea, or wine
- Frequent use of tobacco
- Natural aging
- Genetic factors
Intrinsic Vs. Extrinsic Stains: What’s the Difference?
There are two main categories of tooth stains; these are known as intrinsic and extrinsic stains.
Extrinsic stains are surface stains on teeth that will mainly cause the enamel (the outermost layer) to become discolored. Despite this crucial bone being an incredibly strong protector of your teeth, it is also the first to encounter whatever you eat or drink. As time goes on, this repeated contact will lead to the enamel actually absorbing a bit of color from your food — this eventually causes an extrinsic stain. Note that, in most cases, the acquired stain does not move any further than the enamel layer.
Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur when the dentin (the layer underneath your enamel) becomes stained. As the dentin is left exposed from improper oral hygiene, its natural coloring — a darker or even yellow hue — becomes increasingly visible.
Because extrinsic stains form on the outer layer of the tooth, they can be more easily treated with at-home whitening products. On the other hand, intrinsic stains often require a professional whitening treatment performed by a dentist for the best results.
At-Home Methods to Remove Stains
There are many at-home treatments available on the market today to remove stains from teeth, and they are a good option for those with extrinsic stains. But remember to be cautious with these; certain products have the potential to cause even more damage to the enamel and even tooth sensitivity.
Whitening Toothpaste + Mouthwash
As demand for a pearly smile continues to rise, so do the options for whitening toothpaste. Venture to any dental product aisle and you'll likely be met with a plethora of choices, from pastes containing activated charcoal to baking soda. Be aware that ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide have been known to cause differing levels of tooth sensitivity.
Whitening Gel
Tooth whitening gel can be purchased over-the-counter or from your local dentist. Their ingredients are usually peroxide-based and act as a form of bleaching agent. More often than not, whitening gels contain higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide.
Depending on the product, you may also receive a tray to place the gel in. This ensures that the powerful whitening ingredients only come into contact with the teeth (since gums can easily become irritated).
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips work by adding gel to a pre-applied strip, eliminating the need for a tray. Much like regular gel, these products must be applied carefully to avoid irritating any gum tissue they might come into contact with.
Professional Dental Treatments
For deeper, intrinsic stains, professional dental treatments are the more effective and safer choice. Unlike over-the-counter options, your dentist will walk you through all possible treatments to find one specifically tailored to your needs.
Whitening Treatments
Your dentist will offer a treatment option that is highly effective, such as a professional-grade gel application or a highly-concentrated dose of hydrogen peroxide. In some cases, the whitening product may be used in tandem with a laser or heat for faster results.
Veneers
Made from either porcelain or composite resin, veneers are safely cemented over your teeth to change their color or shape. This versatile treatment is optimal for patients experiencing deeper, difficult stains.
With good oral hygiene, veneers can last anywhere from 10-20 years. Talk with your dentist to find the right material for you.
How to Prevent Tooth Stains
But what about preventing tooth stains altogether? To keep your teeth healthy and bright, you might have to make a few changes in your oral routine or lifestyle, such as:
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, especially after eating or drinking
- Flossing daily to combat stains between your teeth
- Using a mouthwash or rinse to clear plaque
- Scheduling regular visits to your dentist to prevent stain buildup
- Being mindful of the foods or drinks you consume on a regular basis
Shine Bright with Lee Simon!
Here at Lee Simon, we know your teeth are as unique as you are! Schedule an appointment with us today for a brighter smile tomorrow!