{"id":293,"date":"2022-08-18T21:26:00","date_gmt":"2022-08-18T21:26:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.theoakbrookdentist.com\/blog\/?p=293"},"modified":"2022-09-21T21:34:15","modified_gmt":"2022-09-21T21:34:15","slug":"types-of-tooth-stains-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.theoakbrookdentist.com\/blog\/2022\/08\/18\/types-of-tooth-stains-and-how-to-get-rid-of-them\/","title":{"rendered":"3 Types of Tooth Stains & How to Get Rid of Them\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Tooth stains and discoloration can make your smile look less than lovely. They take away its luster, leaving it with a yellowish look. Having discolored teeth can make it hard for you to feel comfortable in social situations, such as at parties or in photographs. There are several different things that can lead to dental discoloration, so read on to learn about three types of tooth stains and how to whiten<\/a> your smile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Type #1: Intrinsic Discoloration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Stains inside the tooth are referred to as intrinsic discoloration. Over-the-counter products like whitening strips, toothpaste, and trays aren\u2019t usually effective at removing these kinds of stains. This type of tooth stain can make your teeth look gray and may be caused by certain medications, dental trauma, tooth decay, overexposure to fluoride, injuries, or genetics. You may need to have your smile professionally whitened to remove these stains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Type #2: Extrinsic Discoloration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

These types of stains are superficial and affect the outer layer of the teeth. They can be caused by smoking or other tobacco products as well as consuming dark or highly pigmented foods and drinks. Biannual dental cleanings are often enough to get rid of these stains. Brushing with whitening toothpaste is also effective, but only do so in moderation to avoid enamel damage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Type #3: Age-related Discoloration<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Our tooth enamel naturally starts wearing away as we get older. This allows the yellow dentin under it to show through. Our teeth also become less translucent as we age, which makes them look darker. This type of tooth stain is usually caused by a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic factors. You\u2019ll likely need to seek professional help to correct it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3 Ways Your Dentist Can Brighten Your Smile<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dental discoloration can leave your smile looking dull, but there are several treatments that can improve how it looks, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n