Are you tired of looking at deep, stubborn stains on your teeth that refuse to go away no matter how much you brush and floss? A lot of people face this problem due to factors such as aging, genetics, or consuming certain foods and beverages. Fortunately, going to a dentist can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile by removing deep stains that regular brushing cannot do. In this blog post, we will discuss the various methods dentists use to remove deep stains and the different types of stains each method is best suited for.
What causes deep stains?
Before we dive into the different methods of removing deep stains, let’s take a look at what causes them in the first place. Deep stains can occur due to various reasons such as:
– Aging: As we get older, our tooth enamel wears down, causing a yellowish-brown color to show through.
– Genetics: Some people naturally have darker or yellowish teeth due to genetics.
– Smoking: Smoking can cause deep stains on teeth due to the nicotine and tar present in cigarettes.
– Food and Beverages: Certain drinks such as coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as foods like blueberries and beets, can cause deep stains on teeth.
Methods dentists use to remove deep stains
Now that we know what causes deep stains, let’s take a look at the different methods dentists use to remove them.
1. Professional teeth cleaning (Scale and Polish)
Professional teeth cleaning, also known as a scale and polish, is a common dental procedure that removes surface-level stains caused by food and beverages. It involves the dentist using specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar buildup from teeth, followed by polishing to give them a smooth and shiny surface. This procedure is perfect for regular maintenance of oral hygiene and can remove the majority of superficial surface stains.
2. Prophy-jet cleaning
A prophy-jet cleaning is another professional cleaning method that is slightly more advanced than a scale and polish. It uses a special dental instrument that combines water and air pressure to blast away surface-level stains on teeth. The device also shoots abrasive particles in the form of sodium bicarbonate, which gently remove stains that could have penetrated teeth’s surface. Prophy-jet cleaning is a more powerful cleaning technique that is ideal for stubborn stains that a regular scale and polish cannot remove.
3. Teeth whitening
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that is more effective in removing deep stains that have penetrated teeth’s enamel. It involves using a potent bleaching agent that penetrates deep into the tooth enamel to remove the stains. At the dentist’s office, teeth whitening is done in one sitting in around 60-90 minutes and will result in significant removal of stains.
4. Veneers
A porcelain veneer is a thin, tooth-colored shell that is customized in the shape of your teeth and placed over the front of your teeth to cover stains and improve your smile’s appearance. Veneers are an ideal solution for deep stains that are impossible to remove with bleaching or other methods.
Conclusion
Deep stains on teeth can be frustrating, but thankfully, there are several ways to get rid of them. Professional teeth cleaning is the first step to maintaining healthy gums and removing minor stains from teeth. If deeper stains persist, then a more powerful prophy-jet cleaning or teeth whitening would be an ideal solution. However, in some cases, veneers may be the only option to cover the deep stains entirely. In any case, it would be best to have a conversation with your dentist to determine which method is best suited to your unique needs and to book an appointment. Remember, a healthy and bright smile is always within reach!
FAQ
Can you get rid of permanent stains on teeth?
Dental stains are a common cosmetic issue among people of all ages. While some stains are temporary and can be removed easily with regular brushing and good oral hygiene practices, others can be more stubborn and seem permanent.
If you have intrinsic dental stains, meaning that the staining occurs within the tooth, you will likely not be able to remove the stains completely with just brushing and cleaning alone. The staining can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, medication, trauma, or excessive fluoride. In these cases, you will need to seek professional treatment from a dentist to get rid of the stains.
One of the most effective ways to whiten teeth is through professional tooth whitening. Dentists can offer in-office or at-home tooth whitening treatments, which use a higher concentration of whitening agents than OTC products. In-office tooth whitening is a great option if you need faster results, while at-home treatments generally require daily use for a few weeks to get optimal results. Tooth whitening treatments can significantly lighten your teeth and remove many types of intrinsic stains.
Another option is to cover the stained teeth with veneers. Dental veneers are thin shells bonded to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. They are custom-made to match the color and shape of your natural teeth, and they are incredibly durable. Veneers can also correct other cosmetic issues like chipped or misaligned teeth.
While brushing and cleaning are essential to maintain good oral hygiene, they are often not enough to get rid of permanent stains on teeth. If you have intrinsic dental stains, professional treatment options, such as tooth whitening or veneers, can help to improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence.
