It’s not uncommon for our teeth to lose their natural white colour over time. As we age the outer layer of the teeth known as the enamel gets thinner. This results in our teeth begin to appear a more yellowish, darker colour. Genetics, medication, and injury can also contribute to discolouration. However, our lifestyle choices are the biggest cause of the teeth losing their whiteness.
To restore the teeth to their natural colour, whitening is an extremely effective treatment option. This will, however, depend on how badly your teeth are stained, and whether the discolouration is extrinsic or intrinsic.
Extrinsic stains
Extrinsic stains appear on the enamel, the outer surface of the tooth. Extrinsic stains are often caused by lifestyle choices such as the food and drink we consume, as well as the use of tobacco. Chromophores found in foods such as coffee, tea, cola, and wine are what cause discolouration.
In most cases, these stains are not too difficult to fix, however regular brushing is unlikely to rectify the problem. The best, and most effective, way to treat extrinsic stains is with professional dental bleaching. Not only can the treatment minimise stains and restore your teeth to their natural white colour but can improve their brightness up to eight shades.
Intrinsic stains
Intrinsic stains occur much deeper within the tooth structure. Staining develops within the inner layer of the teeth known as the dentin and is much more permanent. Commonly the result of injury or exposure to too much fluoride and tetracycline antibiotics during the early stages of the teeth’s development.
Intrinsic stains are less responsive to professional dental bleaching and usually benefit from long term teeth whitening treatment. For severe cases of tooth discolouration, veneers and direct resin bonding are commonly used to treat a patient’s cosmetic complaint.