Teeth Whitening Perth

Extrinsic stains are those that develop on the outer surface of the teeth. They are typically caused by external factors, making them more common and, in many cases, easier to address. Here are some common culprits:

1. Food and Beverages: Dark-coloured foods like berries and tomato sauce, as well as beverages such as coffee, tea, and red wine, can contribute to extrinsic staining over time.

2. Tobacco Use: Smoking and the use of tobacco products are notorious for leaving stubborn extrinsic stains on teeth.

3. Poor Oral Hygiene: Neglecting regular brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, resulting in yellowing or discolouration.

4. Medications: Certain medications, particularly tetracycline antibiotics, can cause extrinsic staining, especially in developing teeth.

While extrinsic stains may be unsightly, they tend to respond well to teeth whitening treatments and improved oral hygiene practices.

Intrinsic stains, on the other hand, are located within the tooth structure itself. These stains can be more challenging to remove and often require specialised dental interventions. Here are some causes of intrinsic staining:

1. Aging: As we age, the enamel on our teeth naturally thins, revealing the yellowish dentin layer beneath. This age-related change can result in intrinsic staining.

2. Trauma: Tooth trauma or injury can lead to discolouration, especially if the tooth’s nerve tissue becomes damaged during the incident.

3. Genetics: Some individuals are genetically predisposed to having teeth with a natural yellow or gray tint.

4. Excessive Fluoride: Overexposure to fluoride during tooth development, known as fluorosis, can cause intrinsic staining.

5. Certain Health Conditions: Medical conditions like enamel hypoplasia or amelogenesis imperfecta can result in intrinsic staining due to abnormalities in enamel formation.