Tooth Stains-Extrinsic stains-How to prevent and fix tooth stains

What Are Stains?

Stains are described as intrinsic, that is part of the tooth structure itself or extrinsic, due to an outside source, such as, tea, coffee, tobacco. Intrinsic stain is not removable. It may be altered by different treatments(bleaching and others). Extrinsic stains can be modified by altering lifestyle habits, better oral hygiene and more frequent cleaning at the dental office. Discoloration may also be the first sign of tooth decay, especially white spots(demineralization) or brown areas.

What Do Stains Do?

Stains can be unsightly. Extrinsic stains do not cause dental disease but are socially unacceptable. This has given rise to the huge growth in tooth whitening. Intrinsic stains are due to many factors, genetic, environmental(fluorosis), antibiotic therapy during tooth development (tetracycline staining). Intrinsic discoloration is more difficult to manage.

What Do I Do To Stop Stains From Happening?

You cannot prevent plaque. Since no single method can eliminate plaque a combination of strategies is used to minimise its growth and harmful effects.

• Reduce intake of foods and drinks that stain. Quit tobacco use.
• Improve oral hygiene, brushing and flossing.
• Attend for a regular dental checkup and cleaning with the hygienist.
• If the stain is intrinsic you need dental advice and management.
• Intrinsic discoloration from antibiotics should not occur today as the prescribing doctor should not give antibiotics which affect growing teeth up to the age of 8 years.

Use Emergency Dental Service

Emergency Dental Service is the #1 online resource for connecting patients with dental emergencies directly to dentists in their local area. We are also a great patient referral resource for mobile clinics & dentist with off peak/weekend hours. Visit us online or call our 24 hour patient center at: 1-888-350-1340