How to remove teeth staining

Over time, your teeth can lose their dazzling white shine and start to develop staining. This can really affect your confidence and you may feel the need to cover your mouth when you smile or talk. If you’re unhappy with the colour of your teeth, you’re not alone. It is one of the most common cosmetic issues people have with their smile.

What causes stained teeth?

Yellow staining occurs mainly as a result of your diet and lifestyle. Consuming strongly pigmented food and drink such as; red wine, coffee, balsamic vinegar, curry and tomato-based sauces. Fizzy drinks can also cause staining due to its corrosive properties. Smoking or chewing tobacco will make your teeth significantly more yellow – this is not a myth.

How are stains removed from teeth?

Most surface stains are superficial and can often be removed by having a scale and polish performed by a dentist or hygienist. A scale and polish is a thorough professional clean that removes all plaque and tartar that builds up in places that you will find hard to reach yourself. After cleaning, your teeth will be polished with a specially designed tool, hopefully removing any surface stains.

If your teeth are still yellow after this procedure, you can consider having your teeth whitened professionally. There are different treatment options to suit each patient, including at home whitening and in-practice whitening.

Find out more about our professional home whitening treatment here.

If your stains are developing due to age, teeth whitening procedures often do not make a difference to the appearance of your teeth. However, this does not mean that the colour of your teeth can’t be improved. There are options available to you like bonding and crowns. Speak to your dentist for more information on this treatment option.

How to prevent staining

By carrying out a few simple steps, it is easy to prevent staining from reoccurring.

• Quitting smoking
• Reducing your intake of highly pigmented food and drink
• Rinsing your mouth with water when you do enjoy these foods
• Limiting the amount of fizzy drinks you have, and using a straw to drink them
• Chewing sugar-free gum after every meal
• Brush and floss twice per day, use mouthwash once per day
• Use whitening products such as toothpaste and mouthwash
• Attend regular dentist and hygienist appointments

If you would like more information on removing stains from your teeth or bringing them back to their former pearly white selves, contact Stella Maris Dental on 0121 588 4541 to speak to one of our friendly team or to book an appointment.