Palatine Dentist Explains Specific Types of Teeth Stains

WhiteningDentists that provide cosmetic dental procedures do many consultations for teeth whitening. Dull, yellow teeth create the appearance of older age on what might otherwise be a beautiful and engaging grin. Palatine cosmetic dentist, Dr. Brent A. Engelberg will explain the two types of tooth stains, and how your teeth can be improved thought cosmetic dental options.

Staining from the Inside Out

The rarest type of teeth stains are intrinsic, which means they originate inside the teeth. Typically, intrinsic stains result from tooth injuries or because of side effects from certain medications. Tetracycline and doxycycline are examples of powerful antibiotics that ended up discoloring the teeth of many children under the age of eight before the connection was discovered. Now, doctors avoid prescribing these pharmaceuticals to young patients. However, side effects from new medications can pop up from time-to-time. Intrinsic stains have been seen from certain antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs, and high blood pressure medications. You can also end up with intrinsic stains when the roots or your tooth die due to injury. Stains that are born inside your tooth don’t generally respond to regular teeth whitening options. Due to this fact, other cosmetic procedures such as porcelain veneers may be a viable option presented to you by your Palatine dentist.

Surface Tooth Stains

Extrinsic stains are on the outer surfaces of your tooth enamel. These stains are the easiest to remove. Over time teeth naturally become duller or more yellow looking as a result of natural aging. Brushing twice-a-day to combat extrinsic stains can help, but whitening will provide substantial results that can have you looking as many as five or ten years younger. Some of the common causes for extrinsic teeth stains include:

  • Tobacco use
  • Dark berries
  • Red wine
  • Any dark colored foods and beverages

Teeth Whitening from Palatine Dentist

If you are unhappy with the way your smile looks, your dentist in Palatine can help with professional teeth whitening options. Dr. Engelberg offers cosmetic procedures that can help with a number of dental issues. You can reach our 60067 dentist office at 847-259-8030. We are happy to serve patients in Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Northwest Chicago Suburbs, and Northern Chicago Suburbs.