Tooth discolouration is a common dental condition where teeth lose their natural whiteness and turn yellow, brown, or gray. A bright and white smile boosts confidence and suggests good oral health. Tobacco use, improper diet and fluoride content in water are key factors in tooth stains. The good news is that various treatments and preventive measures can restore a healthy, white smile.
Types of Tooth Discolouration
There are three main categories of tooth discolouration:
- Extrinsic Discolouration – Smoking, food, drink, or poor oral hygiene leading to surface stains.
- Intrinsic Discolouration – Excessive fluoride ingestion, medication, or trauma causing stains within the tooth structure.
- Age-Related Discolouration – The Yellowing of teeth over time due to enamel wearing off.
Common Causes of Tooth Discolouration
- Food Habits – Frequent use of tea, coffee, turmeric-containing food, and betel leaf will lead to tooth staining.
- Tobacco Use – Chewing and smoking tobacco are major causes of yellow and brown discolouration.
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Plaque may trap stains, leading to a dull colour of the teeth.
- Excess Fluoride Exposure – Overexposure to fluoride in water may result in fluorosis, resulting in white or brown spots.
- Genetic Factors – The inherent colour of human teeth varies from person to person.
- Dental Trauma or Medications – Trauma or antibiotics like tetracycline can cause deep stains.
How to Remove Stains on Teeth: Professional Treatments in Bangalore
1. Teeth Whitening (Bleaching)
- Performed at dental clinics with hydrogen peroxide or laser.
- Lasts for about an hour and is highly effective for extrinsic stains.
- Cost in Bangalore: ₹5,000 – ₹25,000 depending on the procedure.
2. Dental Bonding
- Places tooth-coloured composite resin over stains.
- Ideal for deep, localised discolouration.
- Cost in India: ₹3,000 – ₹8,000 per tooth.
3. Porcelain Veneers
- Thinnest possible ceramic shells adhered to front teeth to camouflage stains.
- Robust but expensive, anywhere between ₹8,000 – ₹25,000 per tooth in Bangalore.
4. Dental Crowns
- Reserved for severe stains or shattered teeth.
- Reveals appearance as well as functioning.
- Cost in Bangalore: ₹5,000 – ₹20,000 per crown.
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Tooth Stains
- Oil Pulling – Coconut oil swish removes surface stains.
- Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide Paste – A gentle natural abrasive used to whiten teeth.
- Activated Charcoal – Cleans plaque and light stains.
- Diet Control – Food stains like coffee, tea, and turmeric must be avoided.
Preventing Tooth Discolouration
- Good Oral Hygiene – Brushing the teeth twice daily and flossing can prevent plaque formation.
- Limit Staining Foods & Drinks – Reduce the intake of tea, coffee, and carbonated beverages.
- Quit Tobacco – Prevents yellowing and promotes oral health.
- Use a Straw for Drinks – Decreases direct contact with teeth.
- Routine Dental Cleaning – Professional scaling avoids stains and plaque.
Conclusion
Tooth whitening is not a significant issue, as it can be effectively managed with professional treatments and proper oral hygiene. Whether you choose in-clinic whitening, veneers, or traditional home remedies, maintaining good oral hygiene is essential for preserving a bright smile. Residents of Bangalore can access high-quality dental treatments at affordable prices at Growing Smiles in Whitefield, making it easier to restore and maintain a healthy, white smile.