Occasionally, teeth can become discolored by stains on the surface or by changes to the material of the teeth. There are three main types of tooth discoloration, each with a different cause and treatment option.
Extrinsic Discoloration
This type of discoloration occurs on the outer layer of the tooth (known as the enamel). It occurs when the foods we eat and drink stain the outer layer. Beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine are known for staining. Smoking is another cause for staining.
Intrinsic Discoloration
This type of discoloration occurs when the inner structure of the tooth (called dentin) becomes discolored. The tooth tends to appear yellow or brown in color. There are several instances during which this type of discoloration occurs. The main reasons include overexposure to too much fluoride as a child, your mother used tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy, you ingested tetracycline antibiotics before the age of 8 years old, you had trauma to the tooth in the form of a fall when you were little creating damage to the permanent tooth, you had trauma to the permanent tooth causing internal bleeding, or you were born with a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta.
Age-Related Discoloration
This type is a combination of intrinsic and extrinsic discolorations. The dentin naturally yellows with age as the enamel thins. The enamel thinning allows the yellow dentin to show through. Staining also tends to get worse as we age, making the effects of coffee, tea, red wine and other staining foods increase.
There are several ways to prevent extrinsic discoloration. Refraining from drinking and eating staining foods will aid some. Brushing after every meal and flossing once a day will also decrease the amount of staining that occurs. Regular cleanings from a hygienist may remove some of the deeper staining. Intrinsic discoloration may be avoided in children by avoiding overexposure to fluoride and not administered tetracycline antibiotics before the age of 8. In adults, an intrinsically discolored tooth may be due to damage to the root of the tooth. A visit to the office for a dental radiograph of the tooth may give a more definitive diagnosis.
One of the most popular ways for removing extrinsic discoloration is the implementation of bleaching products. This will only help extrinsically discolored teeth as it removes stains on the enamel and will not affect the dentin. Smile Station Dental offers a reward program for patients who keep up with their regular hygiene appointments called the White for Life program. Patients that come in at regular intervals receive free whitening trays specifically made for their teeth and free bleach tubes to whiten to their desired shade in the comfort of their own home. Ask your hygienist on your next visit for more information on this reward program.
R. Eric Emery, DDS
2901 Dougherty Ferry Rd, Suite 400
St. Louis, MO 63122
(314)821-7100
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