Stained or discolored teeth can be a cause of low self-esteem. If you notice, people with unsightly teeth do not talk, smile, or participate in conversations as much as those who have shiny bright pearls. It can be because they are ashamed of their teeth or they just do not want to be made fun of. Whatever a person’s reason is, learning about this problem is the first step in solving it. If you are suffering from teeth stains and discoloration, let the following information turn things around for you.

There are Two Types of Teeth Stains

Extrinsic and intrinsic stains are the two types of teeth discoloration. Stains that appear on the outer layer of the teeth, caused by smoking, dark foods and drinks, and just the daily wear and tear are called extrinsic stains. Minor stains that can easily be removed by daily brushing and the use of whitening toothpastes. Intrinsic stains that are more difficult to remove, however the teeth can be bleached using teeth whitening products such as strips, gels, and trays.

Teeth stains as a result of aging, trauma, exposure to minerals, or excessive use of fluoride will need to be removed either with an in-office teeth whitening treatment or a supervised take-home teeth whitening product such as a whitening tray.

Causes of Tooth Stains

Genetic traits such as thinness and translucency cause the teeth to appear yellow. Smoking – Nicotine stain teeth by leaving brownish deposits into the structure of the teeth. Trauma – falls and other types of physical injuries can produce cracks in the teeth, where debris can accumulate and cause stains. Food and drinks – Red wine, coffee, tea, soda, and dark colored fruits are just some of the many types of teeth-staining foods and drinks.

Teeth Whitening Options

There are the in-office whitening products or the over-the counter products. In-Office Whitening – The dentist’s clinic is one of the places you can go to if you want to have your teeth whitened. Dentists apply high-concentration peroxide gel on the patient’s teeth. They may use a light or laser to activate the bleaching process. Over-the-Counter Products – These take-home whitening products include whitening trays, strips, gels, toothpastes, and rinses. Toothpastes and rinses contain mild abrasive, which scrub off surface stains while the other products contain bleaching agents.

Keeping Your Teeth White

Yes, teeth stains can be an annoying problem but it is fortunate that there are now ways people can do to improve the appearance of their teeth so they can start feeling good about themselves. Avoid consuming foods and drinks that cause teeth stains. If possible, sip dark-colored beverage with a straw. Brush and floss daily after you wake up and before you sleep, and if you eat and or drink teeth-staining foods and drinks.

Jane Pennington is the owner of www.teethwhiteningsmiles.com, check out the natural way to get your teeth their whitest.