Our advanced teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry options are designed to effectively remove stains and whiten your teeth, enhancing both the appearance and self-assurance of your smile.
What Is Tooth Discolouration?
Tooth discolouration refers to the change in colour of teeth, resulting in a less vibrant and often less appealing appearance. This can manifest as stains, spots, or a general darkening or yellowing of the teeth.
Discolouration can be caused by various factors, including consuming stain-causing foods and beverages, smoking, poor dental hygiene, certain medications, aging, and underlying dental issues.
Types of Tooth Discolouration
Tooth discolouration can be categorised into two main types: extrinsic and intrinsic discolouration.
Extrinsic Discolouration
This type of discolouration affects the outer enamel layer of the teeth and is caused by external factors. Common culprits include:
- Staining Foods and Drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and certain sauces can lead to surface stains.
- Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco products can cause yellowing or brownish stains.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup and surface discolouration.
- Accumulated Plaque: Tartar buildup can make teeth appear yellowish or brown.
Intrinsic Discolouration
This type affects the inner dentin layer of the teeth and is often related to internal factors:
- Aging: As enamel thins over time, the yellowish dentin beneath becomes more visible, leading to a natural darkening.
- Trauma: Injury to a tooth can cause it to darken due to changes in the tooth’s blood supply.
- Medications: Certain antibiotics (like tetracycline) taken during tooth development can cause intrinsic staining.
- Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development can lead to white or brown spots.
- Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to certain types of tooth discolouration.
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Revive Your Smile’s Brilliance
At Moorooka Dental Care, we specialise in restoring the brightness and radiance of your smile through our teeth discolouration solutions. We offer professional-grade teeth whitening treatments and other cosmetic procedures to address different levels of discolouration. Our skilled professionals will guide you through the treatment process, ensuring you understand your options and helping you choose the best solution for your needs.
How Do Dentists Treat Discoloured Teeth?
Dentists employ various effective methods to treat discoloured teeth and restore a brighter, more confident smile. The treatment chosen depends on the cause and severity of the discolouration. Here are some common approaches:
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is a popular choice for removing stains and brightening teeth. Dentists use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gels to break down stains and lighten the tooth colour. In-office treatments offer quick results, while at-home kits allow patients to whiten gradually.
Dental Veneers
Veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are custom-made and bonded to the front of teeth. They can cover severe stains and discolouration, providing a uniform and bright appearance.
Dental Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover the entire visible part of a tooth. They are often used for severely discoloured or damaged teeth, restoring both function and appearance.
Composite Bonding
Bonding involves applying a tooth-coloured composite resin to the surface of the tooth to mask discolouration. This method is effective for minor discolourations and repairs.
How Can I Fix Discoloured Teeth at Home?
While professional dental care offers the most effective and safe solutions for discoloured teeth, there are some at-home practices that might help improve mild discolouration.
Regular and thorough brushing and flossing can help prevent surface stains. Consider using a whitening toothpaste containing mild abrasives or hydrogen peroxide to gradually lighten stains.
Rinsing with water after consuming staining beverages like coffee or tea can minimise discolouration. Limiting consumption of dark-coloured foods and drinks, and avoiding tobacco products, can also help prevent further staining. However, for noticeable and persistent discolouration, consulting a dentist is recommended.
Professional teeth whitening under the supervision of a dental professional ensures safer and more effective results, addressing deeper stains that home remedies may not fully resolve.
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Where to find us
Moorooka Dental Care
Shop C, 132 Beaudesert Road,
Moorooka QLD 4105
Tel: (07) 3848 3193
Public Transport:
From the city to Moorooka Dental Care, you may hop on the buses with numbers 110/125/115 /124. If you are travelling from the south side, you may take the buses with the numbers 110/115/117/124/125.
Our practice is 1.9km from the Moorooka train station.
