Two Types of Tooth Discoloration

When discussing the staining of teeth you will find two categories: Extrinsic and Intrinsic staining.

Extrinsic stains are the ones that usually appear after exposure to dark colored drinks, eating food and using tobacco as well as normal everyday wear and tear. Extrinsic stains are usually quite minor and many times can be eliminated with tooth brushing and prophylactic dental cleaning. The most stubborn stains on your teeth can be removed through the bleaching process. The persistent forms of extrinsic stains can penetrate your dentin and will become ingrained in your teeth if you do not deal with them early on.

Intrinsic stains are the type that forms inside the teeth. Minerals like tetracycline, excessive amounts of fluoride being ingested, and trauma and aging usually are the causes of intrinsic stains on your teeth. The common train of thought regarding this was that intrinsic stains were far too resistant for the process of bleaching to make any difference. However, the experts in cosmetic dentistry are now in the mind set that even the deepest intrinsic stains will be removed if you use take home whiteners that are supervised by your dentistry professional in just a few short months up to about a year.

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