3 Types of Tooth Discolouration: Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Every day, your teeth are exposed to factors that gradually remove their natural radiance.Over time, this leads to tooth discolouration, leaving your once-bright smile looking yellow, stained, or dull.

In turn, this will decrease your self-esteem as you will always be anxious and ashamed of the appearance of your teeth. These are serious consequences which would make things more difficult for you.

If you do not want to lose the brilliance of your smile, then it is essential for you to know more about the different kinds of factors that eventually lead to tooth discolouration. Doing so will equip you with the proper knowledge to protect your precious teeth from those unpleasant stains.

Here are some details on the 3 different types of tooth discolouration so that you can effectively prevent them from taking away your bright, pearly white teeth.

Extrinsic Tooth Discolouration

Dark pigments in food and beverages commonly cause this type of tooth staining. Dark-coloured foods such as berries, chocolates, and even condiments like soy sauce contain pigments that stick to and stain teeth.

In addition, drinks that cause tooth discolouration include wine, coffee, soda, and sports drinks. Professionals recommend always rinse your mouth with water after consuming these treats to minimise their staining effect on your teeth.

Another habit that causes extrinsic discolouration of your teeth is cigarette smoking.

Intrinsic Tooth Discolouration

In contrast to extrinsic discolouration, which involves the outer layer of your teeth, this type of tooth discolouration occurs when the inner structures of your teeth have been compromised. Common reasons that lead to this include:

• Being exposed to too much fluoride, also known as fluorosis
• Physical trauma which significantly affected dental development
• Severe periodontitis, which leads to internal bleeding

Furthermore, intrinsic tooth staining is mainly due to constant exposure to acids. When you consume a highly acidic drink like soda, the acids react with the enamel upon contact, weakening it and eventually eroding it.

Consequently, dental erosion exposes the yellow-coloured dentin, which is less pleasant in colour than pearly white enamel. That is why it is recommended to use a straw whenever you take a sip of these acidic drinks.

Tooth Discolouration As A Result Of Ageing

It’s natural for teeth to change appearance as you age. Over time, the enamel becomes thinner due to wear and tear, making the underlying dentin more visible.

This combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors and the ageing process contribute to the gradual yellowing or darkening of the teeth.

While age-related tooth discolouration is common, it’s not irreversible. You can still enjoy a bright, youthful smile in later life with the proper care and treatment.

Maintain regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings. Be consistent with brushing and flossing, and consider teeth-whitening treatments when needed.

How to Treat Tooth Discolouration

The proper treatment for tooth discolouration depends on the stains’ type, cause, and severity. The good news is that effective options, whether your discolouration is external, internal, or related to ageing, are available.

Here’s how it’s generally managed:

• Extrinsic discolouration – These surface stains typically respond well to professional teeth cleaning, polishing, and whitening toothpaste. In-office whitening treatments can dramatically improve brightness in a short time.
• Intrinsic discolouration may require stronger interventions such as professional teeth whitening, veneers, or dental bonding. Your Northmead dentist will assess the depth of the stain and recommend the most suitable approach.
• Age-related discolouration – Combining cleaning, whitening, and enamel-strengthening treatments can help offset the natural yellowing with age.

Not all whitening methods are suitable for every type of discolouration. That’s why you must consult your dentist before starting any whitening routine.

Tooth Discolouration Treatment in Northmead

If tooth discolouration takes the shine off your smile, we’re here to help. We combine preventative care with professional teeth whitening treatments to restore and maintain your pearly whites.

Whether you have surface stains or deeper discolouration, our dental team at My Local Dentists will assess your teeth and recommend a personalised plan to restore your confident smile.

Book online or call your Northmead dentist at (02) 9630 9996.

Visit us at 19/5-7 Kleins Rd in Northmead.