Dental Treatments to Remove Tooth Stains: A Guide

Most people have teeth that gradually discolor over time. Sometimes it’s due to the foods that the person eats, sometimes it’s because of a lack of cleaning, and other times it’s simply related to age. Many people try to correct this problem with over-the-counter whitening strips, but this doesn’t always solve the problem as thoroughly as you’d like. It’s better to visit a cosmetic dentistry office in Houston, TX, such as Made Ya Smile, and let the professionals help you find a long-lasting solution.

Removing Age Stains

If you visit an office for cosmetic dentistry in Houston, TX, one type of stain that you can address is the simple stain that comes about with age. As you age, your enamel wears down. This is the hard outer layer that protects the teeth, and when it goes, the lower layers will follow. The dentin, in particular, darkens with age. This is the hard tissue layer that, when exposed, leads to tooth sensitivity. If you have these age-related stains, your dentist may actually recommend at-home whitening kits, but he or she might bleach the area in the office instead. If this still isn’t enough, your dentist can always cover the stain with a dental crown or bond over the enamel.

Removing Extrinsic Stains

These stains are the ones left on your enamel by the various foods and beverages you consume. You might be able to get rid of these with a whitening toothpaste, but if that isn’t enough, then the best cosmetic dentists in Houston, TX, can help you find another option, such as a professional deep cleaning. That means that your dental hygienist will remove your plaque and tartar buildup from the surface of your teeth and their roots with a scaling tool.

Removing Intrinsic Stains

When your enamel and dentin get stained or deteriorate because of poor oral health, you won’t be able to simply whiten your teeth at home. Sometimes dentists do manage to whiten the teeth in the office, but even the best cosmetic dentist in Houston, TX, might have to find alternate solutions. Some teeth are too far gone by the time the patient comes into the office, and, in that case, the dentist may hide the stains with tooth-colored caps.

Preventing Stains

After you get advanced cosmetic dentistry in Houston, TX, you’ll want to make sure you protect your teeth so that you don’t have to get them whitened all over again. Instead, it helps to prevent tooth stains by taking a few simple steps. You can avoid sugary foods and caffeine, and it also helps to brush your teeth after every meal. When you brush, scrub gently to avoid wearing down the enamel. Drinking a lot of water and rinsing your mouth often is also a big help to your teeth.