Learn More About
Stained Teeth

If you are like most people, you probably have stained teeth. Many people think their stained teeth are just a part of life, and they can do nothing about it. However, this is not true! While you can’t change some factors that cause stained teeth, there are ways to reduce or mask their appearance.

We'll Lighten Your Stained Teeth So You can Smile Confidently Again.

Though it may not be immediately apparent, the colour of your teeth plays an important role in your overall appearance. Bright, white teeth are viewed as a sign of youth and good health, while stained or discoloured teeth can give the impression of poor hygiene. Unfortunately, over time, teeth can become stained and discoloured.

Stained teeth can be caused by a number of different factors, including smoking, drinking coffee or tea, and eating certain foods. Having stained teeth may lead to self-consciousness about smiling or laughing. In addition, they can make people look older than they are.

AP Dental offers various services to help you achieve a brighter smile. Our professional teeth whitening treatment is a popular option that can leave your teeth looking brighter. If your stains are more stubborn, we also offer dental veneers and crowns, which can cover up stains and give you a bright, white smile. If you’re looking for a complete smile makeover, we can help with that, too. The friendly and experienced dentists at AP Dental are committed to helping lighten your teeth so that you can smile with confidence again.

Common Causes of Stained Teeth

Foods and drinks, especially those with dark pigments, can leave behind residue that can discolour teeth over time.
Tobacco use is another common cause of stained teeth. The tar and nicotine in tobacco can stick to teeth and leave them looking yellow or brown.
Poor dental hygiene can also lead to stained teeth. If plaque accumulates on the surface of your teeth, it can give a discoloured or yellowish appearance.
Aging can also lead to tooth staining simply because the enamel gets thinner as we get older, allowing the inner layer of dentine (which is yellow in colour) to show through.
Genetic conditions can also play a role in tooth staining — if your parents or grandparents had dental conditions such as amelogenesis and dentinogenesis imperfecta which caused the teeth to have stains, you’re more likely to have them.
Some medical treatments and medications can also cause staining. If you undergo radiation therapy for cancer, it can damage the salivary glands and cause dry mouth. This can lead to tooth stains and bad breath.
When taken during pregnancy, medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can also cause tooth staining to the unborn child.

Dental Services that Can Address Stained Teeth

Frequently Asked Questions about Stained Teeth

What are the different types of teeth stains?

There are two types of teeth stains: extrinsic and intrinsic.

Extrinsic stains are surface-level stains caused by smoking, drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or eating certain foods.
Intrinsic stains are deeper stains that occur when the inner layer of tooth enamel becomes discoloured. These types of stains are often due to aging or taking certain medications.

What foods and drinks can stain my teeth?

If you’re concerned about keeping your smile white and bright, you may want to avoid certain foods and drinks that can stain teeth, including:

Coffee
Tea
Red wine
Berries
Fruit juices
Soda
Tomato-based sauces
Curry
Soy sauce
Balsamic vinegar
Chocolate and candy
Beetroot

While we may not be able to give up all of these delicious items, we can enjoy them in moderation and take some preventive steps to help reduce staining. For example, using a straw when drinking beverages will help limit contact with your teeth. Stain-causing debris may also be removed by rinsing your mouth immediately after eating or drinking. In addition, you can brush or scrape your teeth after eating foods that are more likely to cause staining. Finally, regular dental visits for cleanings and checkups can go a long way toward preventing tooth stains.

Which is more effective: in-chair teeth whitening or home whitening products?

Professional in-chair teeth whitening is a popular choice for fast, long-lasting results. The concentration of peroxide used in these treatments is much higher than what you’ll find in over-the-counter products, meaning you’ll see a noticeable difference after just one session. And because a dentist carries out the treatment, your smile will be protected from any potential damage. Dentists can also assess an individual’s suitability for the procedure and consider any potential side effects.

Over-the-counter whitening products generally contain lower concentrations of peroxide than what’s used at the dentist. It means that it may take longer to produce results. However, they are usually less expensive than in-office procedures. Some dentists also offer take-home whitening trays. They have higher peroxide concentrations than over-the-counter whitening products, providing a longer-lasting result. You will be able to whiten your teeth from the comfort of your home under the supervision of your dentist.

Will my stained teeth go away on their own?

The answer is no. Enamel covers the surface of your teeth. It is the part of your teeth that becomes stained when you eat or drink certain foods and drinks. Once the enamel is damaged, it does not grow back. That’s why taking care of your teeth and regularly visiting the dentist are important. There are several ways to remove stains from your teeth, including professional teeth whitening treatments. So, if you want to restore your pearly whites, don’t wait – contact AP Dental today!

Can teeth stains be reduced with a scale and clean?

Yes, a scale and clean can reduce teeth stains. A scale and clean is a professional cleaning that removes tartar, plaque, and surface stains from your teeth. It can reduce staining and discolouration, and it can also help prevent cavities and gum disease.

Get a Smile that Stands Out

At AP Dental, we are proud to offer a wide range of dental services to meet the needs of our patients. From professional cleanings and dental fillings to more complex procedures, we are here to help you maintain a brighter, healthier smile. Book your appointment today and see the difference our team can make.