Teeth Stains
Tooth discoloration can occur as a result of surface stains, due to actual changes in the tooth material, or because of a combination of both factors. Dentists divide discoloration into three main categories:
1. Extrinsic discoloration - This occurs when the outer layer of the tooth (the enamel) is stained by coffee, wine, cola or other drinks or foods. Smoking also causes extrinsic stains.
2. Intrinsic discoloration - This is when the inner structure of the tooth (the dentin) darkens or gets a yellow tint. Causes include excessive exposure to fluoride during early childhood, the maternal use of tetracycline antibiotics during the second half of pregnancy and the use of tetracycline antibiotics in children 8 years old or younger.
3. Age-related discoloration- This is a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic factors. In addition to stains caused by foods or smoking, the dentin naturally yellows over time.
Brushing the teeth after every meal will help to prevent some stains. Regular cleanings by a dental hygienist also will help to prevent surface stains.
Dental Research and Management is an open access dentistry journal which publishes Research/Review/Mini-Review/Short communication/Case Reports related to Dentistry. Dental Research and Management publishes articles related to above but not limited to it. All the articles related to dentistry are published online and are available to the readers worldwide without any Subscription Charge. Dental Research and Management is the Journal maintained by Edelweiss publications, which ensure of Rapid Peer review with the help of its Editorial Board.
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