Are your teeth stained? Have you ever wondered how permanent stains form on teeth? Teeth can darken both intrinsically and extrinsically. Intrinsic tooth stains normally indicate an oral health problem within the interior structure of teeth such as the pulp chamber while extrinsic stains form on the outer surfaces of teeth. Unfortunately, store-bought teeth whitening kits, toothpastes, and rinses lack the potency to effectively bleach permanent stains on teeth. With over 20 years of experience brightening smiles, Dr. Gilly Calcagno and our team at Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry discuss how tooth stains form and the appropriate ways to effectively address discolorations.
Extrinsic Tooth Stains
A number of factors can stain teeth extrinsically. The natural aging process along with exposure to dark foods and beverages ultimately darken teeth over time. Beverages such as coffee, tea, and wine are notorious for causing permanent tooth stains. Using tobacco also contributes to stains as well. The outer layer of your teeth, the tooth enamel, is composed of minerals. When you consume tooth-staining beverages and foods, dark particles collect on your tooth enamel. Over time, your tooth enamel will darken and discolor. Professional whitening treatments are necessary to effectively address permanent tooth stains. At Calcagno Cosmetic & Family Dentistry we offer in-office whitening treatments that will brighten your smile up to ten shades in one office visit.
Intrinsic Tooth Stains
If the internal structures of teeth have darkened, Dr. Calcagno may need to perform endodontic treatment and restorative dentistry to restore oral health and the esthetics of a patient’s smile. Intrinsic tooth stains can be caused by a traumatic injury to the tooth or an internal infection. After a thorough dental checkup, Dr. Calcagno will determine the root cause of intrinsic discoloration and address it with the appropriate treatment.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Calcagno, contact our Rochester dentist office at (507) 281-3659. We serve patients from Red Wing, Winona, St. Charles, Farmington, Hastings, and the neighboring communities in and around Rochester.
