There are many reasons for tooth discoloration. There are extrinsic stains, intrinsic stains, and age related reasons to why teeth begin to lose color. Dark foods and some liquids are also some reasons for tooth discoloration. There are many ways to treat tooth discoloration. One of the main reasons why people see a dentist is because of their teeth changing color.

Extrinsic stains are stains that are in the enamel (outer layer of the teeth). These stains are caused by food or liquids. Some liquid examples are coffee, wine, and cola, the enamel part of the tooth have very small pits and ridges and through these ridges the dark liquids stain the enamel. Smoking also causes extrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains are easier to correct, because the stain is in the outer part of the teeth.

Intrinsic stain are stains that are in the dentin (inner tooth structure). The tooth tends to darken or turn yellow from the inside. This is usually caused by different factors such as medication, trauma, or fluoride treatment. Some medication like tetracycline antibiotics are known to cause intrinsic stains. If you accidentally hurt your teeth for example, a fall can cause the tooth to change color. Having too much fluoride exposure at an early age also stains the teeth intrinsically. For fluoride the stains would usually be white. Intrinsic stains are more difficult to correct because the stain come from the dentin.

Age related stains are usually a combination of mixed intrinsic and extrinsic stains. Dentin usually turns yellowish as we age. The enamel part of the teeth tends to wear out with age causing the dentin to be exposed more making the teeth look darker or yellowish.

There are many ways to correct tooth discoloration, extrinsic stains are easier to correct. Dr. Danial Kalantari of Smiles on Bristol Dentistry recommends all his patients to brush and floss daily to remove any plaque and to schedule regular cleanings. Extrinsic stains and some Intrinsic stains can be corrected by bleaching or whitening your teeth. You can also purchase over the counter products. Over the counter products aren’t as strong as professional whitening products, this means that over the counter whitening material take longer for you to see results. For deeper intrinsic stains the best way to correct is by placing crowns or veneers. Dr. can also recommend dental fillings.

Tooth Discoloration is mainly a cosmetic problem. If you have any questions regarding tooth discoloration you can contact your friendly staff of Smiles on Bristol Dentistry./contact-us/