Stains on teeth are a common nuisance that many people face. Whether it’s the result of that morning coffee habit, or something else entirely, there’s good news: you can say goodbye to discoloration with the right care and a bit of cosmetic dentistry.
If the appearance of your teeth is making you feel a little self-conscious about your smile, Dr. Julie Glud can help. With simple yet impactful treatments, our Lombard, IL, cosmetic dentist can enhance your smile while boosting your oral health. Call Dental Care of Lombard at (630) 629-5700 to reserve your appointment now!
Now, let’s dive into the world of tooth stains. In this blog, Dr. Glud explains why they appear and how you can kick them to the curb.
The Culprits Behind Stains on Teeth
Stains on teeth can be categorized into two main types: extrinsic and intrinsic. Sounds fancy, right? Don’t worry, it’s simpler than it sounds.
Extrinsic Stains
These are the ones that form on the exterior, or outer surface, of teeth. They’re usually caused by external factors, like the food and drinks we consume. Think lattes, iced tea, red wines, and other colorful treats. Even tobacco use is a big contributor.
The good news? Extrinsic stains are typically easier to remove since they haven’t penetrated deep into the tooth enamel.
Intrinsic Stains
Now, these are a bit trickier. Intrinsic stains develop inside the tooth, making them harder to tackle.
They can result from some medications, trauma to the tooth, or excessive fluoride exposure during childhood development. These stains on teeth require more intensive treatments, often involving cosmetic dentistry.
Age-Related Stains
As we age, our teeth naturally start to yellow or darken. This is a combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, and it’s totally normal.
The outer enamel wears down over time, revealing the slightly yellow dentin underneath. But just because it’s normal doesn’t mean you have to live with it!
The Sneaky Lifestyle Factors
Your lifestyle choices play a massive role in the development of stains on teeth. Here are some of the biggest offenders:
Coffee & Tea
Your morning (and afternoon) pick-me-ups might be giving you more than just a caffeine boost. Both coffee and tea contain tannins that can lead to discoloration.
Red Wine
A glass of red wine might be great for winding down, but it’s also notorious for leaving dark stains on teeth.
Berries & Beets
These colorful fruits and veggies are packed with nutrients, but they can also leave your teeth looking less than their best. But don’t deprive yourself of these foods – just be sure to wash them down with plenty of water to remove staining pigments.
Tobacco
Whether you light it up or chew it, tobacco is a major culprit when it comes to staining teeth. The nicotine and tar in tobacco easily latch onto tooth enamel, turning teeth yellow or brown over time.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Skipping brushing and flossing is like an open invitation for stains on teeth to settle into teeth. Regular oral care helps prevent the buildup of plaque, which can trap stains.
Medications
Some medicines, especially antibiotics like tetracycline, can cause intrinsic stains on teeth, particularly if prescribed during childhood when teeth are still developing.
How to Banish Stains on Teeth
Now that we know why stains on teeth happen, let’s get to the fun part: how to get rid of them! There are several ways to tackle these unwelcome guests, from over-the-counter remedies to professional cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Regular Brushing & Flossing
It might sound basic, but keeping up with your oral hygiene is the first line of defense against stains on teeth.
Scrub teeth at least twice a day with an enamel-protecting toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush. Be sure to floss daily to remove hidden plaque snuggled between teeth. Lastly, brush that tongue to remove residual debris that can contribute to dental stains.
Whitening Strips & Gels
These are available over-the-counter and can be effective for removing extrinsic stains. They usually contain peroxide, which helps bleach stains away over a period of days or weeks. Just be sure to adhere to the instructions carefully to avoid sensitivity.
Professional Teeth Cleaning
A visit to our Lombard, IL, dentist for a professional cleaning can work wonders. Dr. Glud has tools that can remove plaque and tartar build-up that you can’t banish with brushing and flossing alone.
Teeth Whitening Treatments
For more stubborn stains on teeth, in-office whitening treatments are your best bet. Dr. Glud can use stronger bleaching agents that work faster and more effectively than over-the-counter options. The best part? These results can last for years with proper upkeep!
Veneers & Bonding
For intrinsic stains or discoloration that doesn’t respond to whitening, cosmetic dentistry offers solutions like veneers and bonding.
Veneers cover the front of teeth with the help of ultra-thin prosthetics, giving them a flawless appearance.
Bonding, on the other hand, entails the skillful application of a tooth-colored resin to the teeth to cover stains and imperfections.
Lifestyle Changes
If you want to prevent stains on teeth from coming back, consider making some lifestyle changes. Cutting back on staining foods and drinks, quitting tobacco, and keeping up with your oral hygiene will go a long way in maintaining a bright, white smile.
Keeping Those Pearly Whites Gleaming
Once you’ve gone through the effort to get rid of stains on teeth, you’ll want to make sure your smile stays bright. Here are some tips to keep those stains at bay:
Rinse After Eating
Give your mouth a quick rinse with water after consuming anything that could stain teeth. This helps wash away potential staining agents before they can set in.
Use a Straw
When enjoying beverages that can stain, try sipping through a straw to minimize contact with your teeth.
Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Munching on sugar-free gum after meals can help increase saliva production, which naturally cleanses the teeth.
Stay on Top of Dental Visits
Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining a healthy, stain-free smile. Dr. Glud can catch early signs of staining and recommend preventive measures.
Get Rid of Stains on Teeth with Dr. Julie Glud
While stains on teeth can be a real bummer, there’s no need to panic. Understanding why they happen and knowing how to treat them puts you in control of your smile. Want to learn more about your options for a brighter smile? Contact Dental Care of Lombard online or call our dentist in Lombard, IL, at (630) 629-5700 to book a consultation now!
