How to Remove Stains from Teeth
My teeth are stained, can I make them whiter?
Stained teeth are a common cosmetic issue that has no bearing on your health or the health of your teeth. However, being conscious of a yellowed appearance may impact confidence and self-esteem for some. Fortunately, there are ways to remove stains on teeth that our dentists support.
Types of Stains on Teeth
The effect of tooth stain removal treatments depends on the cause and type of stains. The difference in types of stains has to do with the different layers in each tooth.
- The outer layer is called enamel and is the hardest part of the tooth. Enamel protects the rest of the tooth by covering the exposed surface.
- The sensitive layer under the enamel is called dentin, and this forms the bulk of the tooth. It’s also the part that causes pain in teeth when the enamel is eroded.
- Beneath the dentin is the pulp, the inner core of the tooth. Pulp is made up of cells, blood vessels and a nerve
1.Extrinsic Stains
The outer layer of the tooth, the enamel, is stained, but the discolouration does not go deeper than this. These stains develop over time from substances that regularly pass through the mouth, such as nicotine, red wine, berries or coffee.
Extrinsic teeth stains are the easiest to remove by whitening because they are on the surface layer of the tooth.
2.Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains appear when dentin is discoloured. Particles of the stain-causing substance have worked through the enamel and accumulated, causing a stubborn stain. Dentin is naturally darker than enamel, so erosion that exposes the dentin may also appear as discolouration.
Intrinsic stains are less likely to be removed by home remedies (see below) but may be responsive to professional teeth whitening by a dentist.
3. Age-related Staining
This type of stain is due to the natural darkening of the dentin and thinning of enamel over time, changing the appearance of the teeth. The darker dentin begins to show through the thinner enamel, leading to a natural darkening which occurs in most adults. Age-related stains are not related to dental hygiene.
Intrinsic stains are deeper, and will likely take longer to remove than extrinsic stains. Treating extrinsic stains early on will prevent them from becoming intrinsic. Age-related staining is more difficult to remove but can be covered with veneers if whitening treatments are not working.
Staining on teeth: Removal Methods
The method for removing stains on teeth that you choose depends on whether your stains are intrinsic, extrinsic or age-related, and your personal preference. Remember that intrinsic stains may take longer to remove than extrinsic stains and that patience may be required.
Whitening Toothpaste
Many toothpaste brands offer whitening varieties that can remove stains over time with daily use. Regular brushing (twice daily) will see a lightening of extrinsic stains within weeks.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can provide significant results for both extrinsic and intrinsic stains. This is the most reliable tooth stain remover as your dentist will advise you based on your personal situation.
Streatfield Dentists offer in-surgery whitening treatments. Treatments at our surgery involve applying a bleaching agent to your teeth and activating it with an ultraviolet light. Take-home kits are available over the counter at many pharmacies, but may be dangerous if used incorrectly. There are many reasons to have whitening by a dentist.
Teeth Stain Home Remedies
Some people have success removing tooth stains using natural remedies from household items. These include:
Bicarbonate of soda – brush a paste of powdered bicarbonate of soda and a little water onto the teeth before brushing with your normal toothpaste. Some toothpastes contain bicarbonate of soda as a whitening agent. This method may take up to a month with daily repetition.- Activated charcoal – the latest health craze in dentistry: the idea is that charcoal absorbs toxins and as such, whitens your teeth. In reality it is more likely that a small amount of powdered charcoal brushed onto the teeth is abrasive enough to rub stained enamel away, removing the stain. However, using this too much can lead to severe enamel erosion and sensitive teeth.
- Fruit Peel – some suggest rubbing the teeth with the peel of an orange or banana after brushing to allow the citric acid to dissolve stains. Again, use caution, as any acid on the teeth will dissolve enamel and lead to tooth decay.
- Eating Fruit – by far the most sensible home remedy for tooth stain removal, there are claims that apples, papaya and pineapple can improve the appearance of stains. Papaya contains papain and pineapple contains bromelain, digestive enzymes which dissolve staining particles.
While these methods may offer limited results, it’s important to use caution as they can potentially damage the enamel or irritate the gums if not used properly. It is always advisable to consult with a dentist before trying any home remedies.
Dental Procedures for Stained Teeth
If the stains on your teeth are severe or resistant to other whitening methods, you might opt for dental procedures to disguise the appearance of your teeth.
- Veneers are thin shells that are custom-made and bonded to the front surface of your teeth
- Composite Bonding involves moulding tooth-coloured resin onto the teeth to cover stains, chips, or gaps between teeth.
- White fillings can maintain the appearance of white teeth when filling cavities.
Preventing Tooth Staining
Maintaining good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, can help prevent new stains from developing and maintain the whiteness of your teeth. Reducing your consumption of staining foods and drinks, such as coffee, red wine and tea, will reduce the number of tannins in contact with your teeth. Giving up smoking can also help prevent tooth stains.
Streatfield Dental is Here to Help.
You can always talk to a dentist for support with stained teeth. We are happy to advise on the type of stains you are experiencing and what methods for tooth stain removal are most likely to have an impact for you. We also provide professional tooth whitening and other cosmetic procedures to help you feel confident in your smile once more.
