that you may want to amend. These are extrinsic stains that are above the enamel and intrinsic stains that are below the enamel.
Extrinsic Stains
Extrinsic stains are produced by lifestyle choices. These include tobacco use, consuming dark-colored foods and drinks, drinking sugary sodas and sports drinks, inadequate brushing, and infrequent trips to the dentist. Usually, such surface stains can be lightened to some extent with a professional dental cleaning.
Following an effective daily
dental hygiene routine
can help prevent tooth discoloration before it sets. However, if you can’t give up daily habits like drinking coffee or sofa or using tobacco, all the work from maintaining a strong oral hygiene routine goes out the window.
If you’re a smoker, we highly suggest quitting, not just for the color of your teeth but also for the overall health of your mouth. Smokers are more likely to suffer from gum disease and oral cancer, while tobacco users are at risk for issues including tooth decay and chronic dry mouth.
Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains on the teeth are produced from the aging process. They can also result from other factors, such as from using mouthwashes featuring chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride. As these stains are found under the enamel of the teeth, unfortunately, such marks may not lighten from topical bleaching.
However, these deep stains can still be treated and in some cases may react positively to our whitening services. If the stains are substantial or we believe that they’re unlikely to lighten, don’t worry. Instead of going ahead with treatment, we’ll chat with you about other dentistry options that are more suitable for your teeth.