Stained teeth can prove a lifelong annoyance to people who take pride in their appearance and want to be able to smile with confidence. Discolouration can be extremely difficult to shift, usually due to a lack of understanding of its root cause. Dental staining falls into two main categories – extrinsic and intrinsic. Cosmetic dentistry can provide comprehensive solutions to both of these types, and the experts at the Harley Street Smile Clinic have produced this handy guide to explain just what those are.

Extrinsic Staining

Coffee, tea, wine, cigarettes and particular types of squash and soft drink make up just some of the many culprits that cause stained teeth. The simple passage of time also results in the build-up of discolouration on the surface of each tooth, outside of the enamel. This can sometimes be combatted by a deep-clean at the dentist’s, but for more effective results, the Harley Street Smile Clinic use a combination treatment. First of all, they employ brand new technology, dubbed “The Stain Blaster” to safely, quickly and effectively clean marks from the surface of the teeth, then, with these barriers removed, they set to work applying whitening fluid to bring the teeth to their full potential sparkle.

Intrinsic Staining

Tetracycline staining – a result of ingesting some antibiotics, or fluorosis – a result of ingesting fluoride, which is found in some toothpastes and occasionally in tap water, are just two forms of intrinsic staining. It can also take place as part of the aging process. This type of discolouration is something that can’t be treated by simply whitening the teeth, as it effects the whole tooth and not just its surface, so the Harley Street Smile Clinic recommend the application of porcelain veneers to give the smile that extra boost it needs. Veneers are created with excellent attention to detail, giving each tooth a natural, healthy look. They also have the added bonus of optional re-shaping and straightening, meaning that this treatment can offer twice the effect of others. Often achievable in just two pain-free appointments, the procedure is so simple that you can return to work pretty much immediately.

Many people are surprised by how simply their tooth discolouration can be rectified, and a large number of our clients wish that they had sought treatment for it a long time ago. You can take a step towards sparkling teeth by calling the Harley Street Smile Clinic on 020 7486 6777 and arranging a free consultation today!