1801 Greenview Dr SW Suite 101, Rochester, MN 55902
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Rochester Dentist Explains the Causes of Tooth Stains

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Teeth stains are embarrassing, and often leave people feeling self-conscious about their smile. While everyone wants a bright smile, many people don’t understand the factors that cause teeth stains. As a result, people often indulge in bad habits that leave their smile discolored. In today’s blog, your Rochester dentist, Dr. Gilly Calcagno, explains the causes of tooth stains and discusses our teeth whitening techniques.

Two Kinds of Stains

Did you know there are two distinct types of tooth stains? The first step to understanding the causes of tooth discoloration involves knowing the difference between intrinsic and extrinsic stains. If you’re unsure, schedule a consultation with Dr. Calcagno. She will perform an oral examination and decide which type of discoloration you have and offer appropriate treatment options.

Extrinsic Stains

Extrinsic stains are the most common tooth stains. Appearing on the surface of teeth, extrinsic discoloration can be caused by the foods and drinks we consume. For example, tea, coffee, red wine, tobacco, and soda all leave extrinsic stains. Thankfully, maintaining proper dental habits can help prevent these stains. Brush twice a day and floss once. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. These steps assist in cleansing the mouth of food particles and bacteria, reducing the risk of staining.

Intrinsic Stains

Intrinsic stains result from discoloration of the dentin. This layer of tooth structure lies beneath your tooth enamel. Intrinsic staining can be caused by injury, such as receiving a cracked or chipped tooth. This damages the enamel and exposes your dentin. In many cases, certain medications result in dentin staining. Specific antibiotics, such as tetracycline, have been known to discolor teeth when patients are exposed at a young age.

Teeth Whitening Options

Extrinsic stains can usually be addressed with simple teeth whitening. Dr. Calcagno offers both chair side and convenient at-home teeth whitening services. Kor Whitening, our powerful at-home teeth whitening procedure, can also help erase intrinsic stains. Dr. Calcagno may also recommend porcelain veneers for masking intrinsic stains. Thin shells of dental porcelain are placed on a patient’s front teeth. Stain resistant and long lasting, porcelain veneers instantly brighten smiles.

Schedule a Visit with Your Rochester Cosmetic Dentist

Do you want a brighter smile? Interested in our innovative teeth whitening procedures? Make an appointment with your Rochester cosmetic dentist by calling 507-281-3659. Our 55902 dentist office offers the latest in general, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry. We serve patients from Rochester, Red Wing, St. Charles, Winona, Farmington, and surrounding areas.

Dedicated Team

Our team members are proud of the work they’ve done to help community members feel great about their smiles and oral health! With our experience and commitment to positive patient interactions, we can make services feel more comfortable and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile!

Dedicated Team

Our team members are proud of the work they’ve done to help community members feel great about their smiles and oral health! With our experience and commitment to positive patient interactions, we can make services feel more comfortable and help you maintain a healthy, confident smile!

Cosmetic Dentistry

What stands between you and your best smile? We provide cosmetic services that take on the problems that often hurt how people feel about the way they look. A complimentary consultation can help you understand how our care can benefit you!

Cosmetic Dentistry

What stands between you and your best smile? We provide cosmetic services that take on the problems that often hurt how people feel about the way they look. A complimentary consultation can help you understand how our care can benefit you!

Comfortable Care

Whether you schedule a routine evaluation or treatment for an active oral health matter, you should feel supported in the dentist’s chair. With experience, technology, and a dependable team, Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry can help you enjoy your experience with oral health care!

Comfortable Care

Whether you schedule a routine evaluation or treatment for an active oral health matter, you should feel supported in the dentist’s chair. With experience, technology, and a dependable team, Greenview Cosmetic And Family Dentistry can help you enjoy your experience with oral health care!

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