What are The Stained Teeth and Their Causes?

What are The Stained Teeth and Their Causes?

The answer to the questions of what are the stained teeth, what are the causes and how to get rid of the stained teeth on our page. Click detailed information!

Stained teeth are a common dental issue that many people face. It occurs when stain particles from various sources build-up a film of protein that covers the tooth enamel, creating tooth discoloration. 

Below we will share information on the types of teeth stains, how to clean stained teeth / how to remove stains from teeth and how to prevent it from happening again. 

What Are The Types of Teeth Stains?

There are several types of teeth stains, which can be categorized based on the underlying cause of the discoloration. These include:

Extrinsic stains: 
These are stains on the outer layer of the tooth, known as the enamel, caused by external factors such as food and drink, tobacco, and poor dental hygiene. Extrinsic stains typically appear as yellow stained teeth, brown stained teeth, or black stained teeth and can often be removed with professional teeth whitening or regular dental cleaning.

Intrinsic stains:
These are stains on the inner layer of the tooth, known as the dentin, caused by internal factors such as aging, trauma, or medication use. Intrinsic stains are typically gray or brown in color and can be more difficult to remove than extrinsic stains.

Age-related stains:
As we age, the enamel on our teeth naturally thins and wears away, making the dentin underneath more visible. This can cause the teeth to appear more yellow or brown in color, creating yellow stained teeth.

Fluorosis stains:
Fluorosis is a condition that occurs when too much fluoride is ingested during tooth development. This can cause white or brown spots or streaks on the teeth.

Tetracycline stains:
Tetracycline is an antibiotic that can cause gray or brown stains on the teeth if taken during tooth development.

Trauma-related stains:
Trauma to the teeth, such as a fall or injury, can cause the teeth to become discolored or develop dark spots.

Stains caused by dental restorations:
Dental restorations such as fillings, crowns, and bridges can become discolored over time and cause staining on the surrounding teeth.

It is important to consult with a dentist to determine the underlying cause of stained teeth and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

Stained Teeth Causes

There are several stained teeth causes, including:

Poor dental hygiene:
Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to a buildup of plaque and tartar, which can cause yellow stained teeth or brown stains on the teeth.

Tobacco use:
Stained teeth from smoking or chewing tobacco is very common. It can cause brown stains on the teeth, as well as bad breath and other dental issues.

Foods and beverages:
Certain foods and drinks can cause staining on the teeth, including coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and berries. This is also commonly known as tea stained teeth or coffee stained teeth. 

Age:
As we age, the outer layer of enamel on our teeth naturally wears away, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath.

Medications:
Some medications can cause staining on the teeth, such as tetracycline and certain antihistamines.

Genetics:
Some people are born with naturally thicker or darker enamel, which can make the teeth appear more like yellow stained teeth.

Dental restorations:
Certain dental restorations, such as fillings or crowns, may become discolored over time and cause staining on the surrounding teeth.

How to Get Rid of The Stained Teeth?

If you are wondering “Why are my teeth stained?” or “Why are my teeth yellow?” and how to clean stained teeth, the treatment options for stained teeth depend on the type and severity of the tooth discoloration. The answer cleaning stained teeth are usually practical and easy solutions. Most are included within the general title of cosmetic dentistry. 
Here are some common ways on how to get rid of stained teeth:

Professional teeth whitening: 
This is a common and effective treatment for extrinsic stains. A dentist can use a special gel and light to break down the stains and lighten the teeth by several shades.

Dental bonding:
This involves applying a tooth-colored resin to the surface of the teeth to cover up stains and tooth discoloration.

Porcelain veneers:
These are thin shells of porcelain that are custom-made to fit over the front of the teeth to improve their appearance.

Crowns:
For severely stained teeth or those with other dental issues, a crown may be necessary to improve the appearance of the tooth.

Improving dental hygiene:
Regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings can help to remove surface stains and prevent further discoloration.

Avoiding staining foods and beverages:
Limiting or avoiding consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, and other staining foods and drinks can help to prevent further discoloration. Also avoiding what is commonly known as tea stained teeth or coffee stained teeth. 

It is important to consult with a dentist to determine the best treatment option for you on how to remove stains from teeth. They can assess the cause of the discoloration and recommend the most appropriate solution for your specific needs. 

After the required treatment, the best way to prevent stained teeth is to practice good dental hygiene, limit consumption of staining foods and drinks, and avoid tobacco use. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings can also help to remove surface stains and prevent further tooth discoloration.