Teeth stains or discoloration of teeth are caused when food particles stick to the teeth surface or creep into the teeth layer to gather within the tooth enamel. Depending upon the causes of teeth discoloration, teeth stains can manifest in different colours like yellow, brown, white, green and grey. While taking care of what you eat and following oral hygiene can help you to lower the risk of getting teeth stains, knowing the types of teeth stains can help you to know it better. Here's Dr Neeraj Verma, Senior Consultant, Dental Surgery, Apollo Hospitals, Delhi explains types of teeth stains and how to prevent it.
There are two main types teeth discoloration namely intrinsic teeth stains and extrinsic teeth stains.
Extrinsic teeth stains: In this type of teeth stain, the discoloration of the teeth occurs when tiny particles causing the stains stick on the surface of the tooth meaning the tooth is affected by the stain externally. Extrinsic staining takes place when the stain-causing substances get accumulated in the small dents and cracks on the teeth and not inside the tooth enamel. Extrinsic stains may be identified as they usually manifest themselves in brown, black or grey colours. However, in some cases, it can also lead to orange, green or yellow coloration of the teeth.
Intrinsic teeth stains: This type of teeth stain occurs when the tiny particles causing the stains infiltrate and collect within the enamel of a tooth affecting the teeth internally. Teeth with intrinsic stains may be red or pink or shiny yellow. Unlike extrinsic stains where more than one tooth is affected or discoloured, intrinsic stains affect only one tooth.
How to prevent teeth stains?
1. Avoid foods that can lead to teeth staining. This includes dark-coloured fruits and vegetables like blueberries, beetroot, etc. and also sticky foods like chocolates and chewing gums. Here are everyday things that are staining your teeth.
2. Quit smoking and stay away from products containing tobacco as it not only impacts your overall well-being but also worsens oral health causing mouth ulcers, teeth stains and bad breath.
3. Maintain proper oral hygiene. Hence, brush your teeth twice a day, morning and at night, after meals. If you have teeth sensitivity, using toothpaste that can help you to lower tooth sensitivity. Also, if you already have stained teeth, then use anti-staining or teeth-whitening toothpaste. Also, read about these 10 habits that can destroy your teeth and gums.
4. Lastly, floss your teeth to flush out food particles stuck in the open spaces between teeth and prevent staining of the adjacent teeth. You can even opt for professional teeth cleaning techniques once 6 months to keep your teeth white.
5. If you see discoloration of teeth or have any oral problems, consult your doctor immediately to know the root cause and treat the condition. Any delay in treating the problem might further lead to tooth decay or gum disease.
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