Tooth stains can be grouped in two categories: extrinsic and intrinsic.
Extrinsic: A stain that appears on the outer surface of the tooth and can be removed with regular cleanings.
Intrinsic: A stain that is permanent and it's appears beneath the tooth surface. It can not be removed with regular teeth cleanings.
Extrinsic stains:
Brown stains: Are most often external stains caused by certain foods and drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine. Some brown stain may also be seen as cavities.
Brown stains also result from smoking, chewing, or dipping tend to become darker and harder to remove over time.
Black stains: Are linked to dietary habits, most often appear due to high iron intake. Appears mostly in deep pits, fissures, and along the gumlines.
Yellow stains: Are caused by heavy plaque and bacteria formation.
Orange stains: A particular type of bacteria that is linked to cavity formation. Mostly seen in children. It typically appears along the gum line of molar teeth, but can also appear at the gum line of front teeth.
Intrinsic stains:
Grey stains: Are caused by silver fillings shadowing through a tooth.
White stain: There are several conditions that contribute to white stains. The most common conditions that cause white staining on the teeth are enamel demineralization, such as the beginning stage of cavities, or in fluorosis, which causes white pitting of the enamel surfaces.
Blue stains: Blue stains are one of the first type of intrinsic stain present. It is caused by a condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta. It is caused by a disruption of the tooth formation and appears as a bluish hue to the teeth. There is a genetic predisposition for dentinogenesis imperfecta.
Extrinsic tooth stains can be removed at a regular dental cleaning, whereas intrinsic tooth stains require a more invasive measure such as tooth bleaching or whitening. It is important to speak with your dentist if you notice staining on your teeth or you are unsatisfied with the appearance of your teeth. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to discuss your tooth staining.
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