How to remove stains from teeth

The best way to remove tooth stains depends on what caused them. Find out more!

Self-conscious about stains on your teeth?

Don’t worry, it is possible to get rid of them.

Lots of tooth whitening products and treatments are now available, all of which are designed to remove stubborn marks and brighten the smile. And the best one for you just depends on the type of stains you have – and whether they’re caused by extrinsic, intrinsic or age-related factors.

Here we take a closer look and explore some of the options currently available at Kiln Lane Dental.

 

Extrinsic tooth stains

Extrinsic tooth stains are those that appear on the outer enamel. Although this is the hardest layer of the tooth, it comes into contact with everything you eat and drink – and, over time, pigments can be absorbed and stains start to form.

The main offenders include tea, coffee, red wine, fizzy drinks, fruit juices, soy sauce, balsamic vinegar, tomato sauce, blueberries, beetroots, and curry. So, to avoid further staining, we recommend cutting these out of your diet as much as possible.

To remove your existing extrinsic tooth stains, a whitening toothpaste – such as Icy Bear Diamond Dust – is the easiest option. This uses gentle micro-particles of diamond dust to clean the tooth’s surface, without causing unnecessary damage to the enamel. And it can be applied twice a day as part of your daily oral hygiene routine.

Alternatively, Blanc One® is a fast and effective tooth whitening treatment, perfect for tackling surface-level stains. It’s performed in-practice, but only takes 30-40 minutes to complete, and is a refreshing and affordable option – available for just £99 per session.

 

Best toothpaste to remove extrinsic tooth stains

 

Intrinsic tooth stains

Intrinsic tooth stains appear because the enamel has started to thin or wear away, either due to poor oral hygiene or the use of certain medications (e.g. tetracycline antibiotics). The inner structure of the tooth (i.e. the dentin) is exposed. And, as this is naturally darker than the enamel, it becomes very noticeable and creates a yellow ‘stain’ on the tooth.

These stains are slightly tougher to remove – but that doesn’t mean it can’t be done.

A variety of professional tooth whitening treatments can be used to restore the teeth to a brighter, more natural shade, such as Blanc One®, Zoom, Home Whitening Kits, and Enlighten Whitening. Alternatively, composite bonding or veneers can be used to hide the intrinsic tooth stains, and improve the overall appearance of your smile.

 

Age-related tooth stains

Last but not least, teeth stains can also be caused by the natural aging process. As we get older, the outer layer of enamel gets thinner and the dentin underneath gradually becomes darker. This combination can often cause discolouration and staining that is out of our control.

Similar to intrinsic stains, age-related stains are slightly trickier to treat, as the issue is at a deeper level rather than on the surface. But again, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.

Professional whitening treatments – such as those available at Kiln Lane – can be used to successfully turn back time and return your teeth to a healthier shade. Or, if you prefer, veneers can be applied to create a generally younger-looking and brighter smile.

 

Patient having tooth whitening treatment at Kiln Lane Dental

 

Eager to remove your stubborn tooth stains?

To find out more about our comprehensive range of treatments, and how they can be used to remove stains from teeth, you’re welcome to get in touch at any time.

Here at our St Helens dental clinic, we’re always happy to help and will gladly answer any questions you may have. We can also arrange a complimentary consultation, during which we can identify whether your tooth stains are extrinsic, intrinsic or age-related and create a bespoke treatment plan for your needs.

Either call us on 01744 25776 or send an email to info@kilnlanedental.co.uk. Or, if you’d like to schedule in a date and time to visit our dental practice and speak to our experts in person, use our online system to book your first appointment.