Everybody wants a white, bright smile and for good reason – it looks healthy and attractive. Unfortunately, many people have stains on their teeth that make them less than thrilled with their smiles. Thankfully, there are ways to remove these stains and have the pearly whites you always wanted.
In this post, we will discuss some of the best ways to remove stubborn teeth stains. Keep reading to learn more!
What are the different types of teeth stains and how do they form?
There are three main types of teeth stains: extrinsic, intrinsic, and age-related.
Extrinsic teeth stains
These are the most common type of teeth stains and occur on the surface of the teeth. Extrinsic teeth stains are deposits that accumulate on the surface of your teeth from contact with different substances.
Pearly white teeth can improve your appearance and make you feel more confident.
The most common extrinsic stains come from the following:
- Drinking coffee and tea
- Smoking
- Eating certain foods like blueberries, cranberries, and curry
The good news is that these types of stains are generally easy to remove with regular brushing and flossing. More stubborn stains may require professional cleaning. However, it is important to note that even with proper care, extrinsic stains will eventually reappear.
For this reason, it is best to avoid foods and beverages that are known to cause staining in the first place.
Intrinsic teeth stains
Intrinsic teeth stains are color changes to the teeth that occur on the inside of the tooth, in the dentin.
Dentin is a hard, bone-like tissue that makes up most of the tooth. When intrinsic staining occurs, it can change the color of the dentin, making it appear yellow, brown, or even blue.
Some common causes of intrinsic teeth stains include:
- Excessive fluoride intake
- Taking certain medications like tetracycline antibiotics
- Trauma to the tooth
Intrinsic stains are usually more difficult to remove than extrinsic stains, which form on the surface of the teeth. If you have intrinsic stains, you may need to see a dentist for treatment. Professional teeth whitening treatments can help to brighten your smile and remove stubborn stains.
In some cases, veneers or crowns may be necessary to achieve the desired results. Talk to your dentist about which option is best for you.
Age-related teeth stains
As we age, our teeth naturally become darker and more yellow. This is due to a thinning of the enamel, which is the hard, outer layer of the tooth. With less enamel to reflect light, the dentin underneath begins to show through, giving the teeth a yellow appearance.
Age-related teeth stains are difficult to avoid, but there are ways to prevent them from getting worse. Regular dental checkups and cleanings can help remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming.
Professional teeth whitening treatments can also help to brighten your smile and remove stubborn stains.
How can I prevent my teeth from becoming stained in the first place?
One of the best ways to prevent your teeth from becoming stained is to avoid foods and drinks that are known to cause staining. Coffee, tea, and red wine are all common culprits. If you do consume these beverages, be sure to brush your teeth soon afterwards.
In addition, tobacco use is a major cause of tooth staining. If you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco, quitting is the best way to protect your teeth.
Another important preventive measure is to have your teeth professionally cleaned on a regular basis. This will remove any build-up of plaque and tartar, which can cause staining over time.
What are some of the best ways to remove teeth stains at home?
While many people take good care of their teeth, it is inevitable that some stains will develop over time. Fortunately, there are a number of effective ways to remove teeth stains from the comfort of your own home. Here are some of the most popular methods:
Brushing and flossing
Brushing and flossing your teeth regularly is the best way to remove surface stains and prevent new ones from forming. Be sure to use a toothbrush with soft bristles, as hard bristles can damage your enamel.
Baking soda and hydrogen peroxide
Baking soda is a natural teeth whitener that can be used to remove surface stains. To use this method, mix equal parts of baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to form a paste.
Apply the paste to your teeth with a toothbrush and let it sit for about two minutes before rinsing.
Apple cider vinegar mouthwash
Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that can also be used to remove teeth stains.
To use this method, mix 6 ounces of water and 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar. Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
Are there any professional teeth whitening treatments that can help?
Yes, there are a number of professional teeth whitening treatments that can help remove stubborn stains. These treatments typically use bleaching agents to achieve results. In-office teeth whitening is one of the most popular professional treatments. This procedure uses a powerful bleaching agent to brighten your teeth.
Final thoughts
Pearly white teeth can improve your appearance and make you feel more confident. While it is impossible to achieve perfectly white teeth, there are a number of ways to remove stains and make your teeth look brighter.
Be sure to brush and floss regularly, avoid foods and drinks that cause staining, and see your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.
