Unfortunately, our teeth cannot stay white forever. External and internal factors mean that your discoloration can happen to anyone. But why does it happen? Is it serious? Is there something we can do about it? This blog post has all the information you need to know about teeth discoloration from a dentist in Downtown Calgary here.
The Types Of Tooth Discoloration
Dental experts have identified three main categories of tooth discoloration:
1.Extrinsic Stains:
Perhaps the most common discoloration for people. Extrinsic discoloration is when the enamel of the tooth is stained due from outside particles – mainly food and drinks – that build up and cover the tooth. The pigmented residue of food and drinks ensures that the tooth’s color changes over time. It is most commonly associated with coffee, tea, tobacco, wine, and pop beverages.
2.Intrinsic Stains:
While extrinsic stains are on the outer layer of the teeth, intrinsic stains develop below the surface of the tooth. You can get intrinsic stains by:
- Experiencing tooth trauma as a young child, which damaged the tooth.
- If you experienced internal bleeding in the tooth when the trauma occurred.
- If your mother used an antibiotic (tetracycline) during the second half of your pregnancy.
- Or if you used antibiotics when you were eight years and younger.
- You have a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta, which causes gray, amber or purple tooth discolorations.
3.Age-Related Stains:
A combination of both extrinsic and intrinsic factors, age-related stains happen as you get older. Your dentin naturally yellows over time, as the enamel around your tooth gets thinner with age, showing your dentin in the process. It is just part of the process as people age.
Should You Be Concerned With Tooth Discoloration?
Very rarely is tooth discoloration an issue. Only when you notice accompanying pain along with the discoloration should you be concerned. In some cases, intrinsic stains can be deep enough that the root of your tooth could be damaged. Speak to your dentist about it to seek treatment.
How A Downtown Dentist Can Help You
If you want to stop your teeth from discoloring, here are a few things you can do:
- Reduce the amount of coffee, tea, wine and soda pop that you consume. Over time, you will notice that you teeth will become whiter.
- You can also buy whitening toothpaste that can help you whiten your teeth. They will help fade away the stains but not remove them altogether.
- For extrinsic stains, you can pay a visit to your Downtown dental clinic for a clean-up. Regular cleanings by a dental hygienist also will help to remove surface stains.
- However, for intrinsic stains, if you find that your tooth is being affected with pain, then you will have to consider a root canal to help you reduce the pain.
When it comes to tooth discoloration, there is no reason to panic. If you are concerned, speak to your dentist about what you can do to protect yourself.
Dr. Tracey Mulhall is a dentist in downtown Calgary that can offer dental fillings, crowns, implants and teeth cleaning. We are well established and always available to help with your dental concerns. Our downtown dental clinic has convenient hours and knowledgeable staff. We want to make your experience at the dentist fast, fun, and friendly. Call us today to book an appointment!
Phone: (403) 262-4914 | Email: [email protected].
