Stains on the teeth
At our Charlottenburg dental practice, we often encounter patients who are concerned about stains on their teeth. But what do these stains actually mean? At Smile & Smile, we shed light on the dark: we explain the causes, diagnostic options and treatment methods for tooth stains so that you know how you can actively protect your dental health.
The most important facts in brief
Tooth stains can have extrinsic (external influences) or intrinsic (within the tooth) causes.
A professional diagnosis is crucial for the right treatment.
Effective prevention is possible with the right dental care and diet.
Types of tooth stains
Veneers are thin, custom-made veneers that are applied to the front of the teeth to improve their appearance. They are used in aesthetic dentistry to correct tooth discoloration, wear and tear, small misalignments or gaps between the teeth.
Extrinsic stains
Extrinsic stains are caused by external influences. Coffee, tea, red wine or certain fruits are often to blame, as they leave pigments on the teeth. These pigments adhere to the tooth surface and penetrate the enamel, causing the teeth to become discolored.
Smoking and chewing tobaccoare also common culprits: tar and nicotine build up on the teeth and lead to yellow or brown stains. Inadequate oral hygiene contributes to the formation of plaque, which not only causes tooth decay but can also promote discoloration. The plaque becomes hard and mineralized, making it difficult to remove the stains.
Intrinsic stains
Intrinsic stains go deeper and are caused by changes inside the tooth. These stains are usually more difficult to remove as they penetrate the dentin. Medications such as tetracycline can permanently discolor the enamel and dentin, resulting in gray or yellowish stains.
Too much fluoride in childhood causes fluorosis, which appears as white or brown spots and changes the structure of the enamel. Trauma, such as a bad fall, or systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, can also lead to internal discoloration by impairing blood flow and nutrient supply to the teeth.
| Type | Cause | Examples |
| Extrinsic | External influences | Coffee, tea, tobacco |
| Intrinsic | Internal changes | Medication, fluorosis, trauma |
Diagnosis and treatment
A thorough examination is the first step in correctly diagnosing tooth stains. A visual inspection provides initial indications, while X-rays provide clarity in the case of deeper problems. Special instruments are used to determine the type of discoloration.
There are various options for treatment:
Professional teeth cleaning effectively removes extrinsic stains.
Chemical bleaching procedures whiten the teeth.
Veneers cover stubborn stains with thin veneers.
Which method is the right one depends on the type of discoloration and your individual needs.
Prevention
Prevention is the key to avoiding tooth stains. In addition to daily dental care, you can significantly improve your dental health by adopting a few habits. Reduce your consumption of discoloring foods and drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine and avoid tobacco as much as possible.
Don't forget to visit your dental practice at least twice a year for a check-up and prophylaxis.
Checklist for prevention
Brush your teeth daily with fluoride toothpaste
Use of dental floss and mouthwashes
Avoidance of discoloring foods and tobacco
Regular visits to the dentist for prophylaxis
Conclusion
Stains on the teeth can have different causes and are more than just an aesthetic problem. With an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment, you can regain a radiant smile. Remember, prevention is the key to avoiding tooth stains. Visit us for professional advice and treatment. Because your dental health is important to us!