Noticing Stains on Your Teeth? Here’s What You Need to Know
A bright, white smile can boost your confidence—but teeth stains can make that goal harder to achieve. While discoloration is common, not all stains are the same. Some are caused by lifestyle choices, while others may be linked to aging or internal changes in the tooth. Knowing the type of stain you’re dealing with can help you and your dentist choose the best treatment.
At Smile Brighter, our cosmetic dentist in Willoughby Hills, OH, Dr. Phillip Wallace is committed to helping patients achieve healthier, more radiant smiles. Whether you’re from Wickliffe, Eastlake, Mayfield Heights, or right here in Willoughby Hills, effective stain solutions are just around the corner. To learn more about types of teeth stains, contact Dr. Wallace by calling (440) 210-0999.
Personalized Dental Care You Can Trust
When you visit Smile Brighter, you’re not just getting treatment—you’re getting personalized care designed around your goals and concerns. Dr. Phillip Wallace, a top dentist in Willoughby Hills, is known for his warm approach, clinical skill, and commitment to long-term dental health.
Here’s what one of our patients, Marilyn C., had to say about her experience:
- “I recently visited Dr. Wallace for the first time bringing a myriad of dental issues with me. After meeting Dr. Wallace I was immediately comfortable with him. He looked over all the issues, determining the main one to be dealt with first and came up with a short-term cosmetic fix. We then discussed long-term care. He is very knowledgeable and never made me feel that my issues were without hope. I look forward to working with him and am glad that I found him. Thank you for your excellent support!”
Patients from surrounding areas like Mentor, Eastlake, Wickliffe, and Mayfield Heights continue to choose Smile Brighter when searching for the best dentist near you. From stain removal to smile makeovers, Dr. Wallace offers solutions that fit your needs and lifestyle.
Types of Teeth Stains
Extrinsic Stains: Surface-Level Discoloration
These stains affect the outer layer of the teeth (enamel) and are often caused by coffee, tea, red wine, soda, tobacco, and certain foods. They are typically yellow or brown in color and respond well to professional dental cleanings and whitening treatments.
Intrinsic Stains: Deeper Tooth Discoloration
These stains develop inside the tooth, often due to trauma, certain medications (such as tetracycline), excessive fluoride exposure during childhood, or untreated decay. Because these stains are beneath the enamel, they may require more advanced cosmetic treatments like porcelain veneers or bonding.
Age-Related Stains: Natural Changes Over Time
As enamel wears down over time, the naturally darker dentin layer becomes more visible. This type of stain combines both intrinsic and extrinsic causes and often occurs gradually. Depending on the severity, treatment options may include whitening, veneers, or dental crowns.
Stains from Poor Oral Hygiene
Infrequent brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which can trap stains on the tooth surface. These are generally treatable with a professional cleaning and improved at-home hygiene habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and berries are among the most common stain-causing items. Smoking or using tobacco products can also severely discolor your teeth. Rinsing your mouth and maintaining regular cleanings can help prevent surface stains.
Whitening toothpaste is helpful for mild surface stains but won’t affect intrinsic discoloration. If your stains are deep or persistent, professional whitening or cosmetic treatments may be necessary.
Not always. While poor oral care can contribute, many stains are caused by things out of your control—such as aging, medications, or trauma. A dental evaluation can determine the cause and best treatment path.
Intrinsic stains often require cosmetic solutions such as porcelain veneers, composite bonding, or internal bleaching. Dr. Wallace can help you explore options based on the depth and source of your discoloration.
Let Our Willoughby Hills Dentist Help You Love Your Smile Again
If you’re dealing with discolored teeth and ready for real answers, Smile Brighter in Willoughby Hills, OH is here to help. Dr. Phillip Wallace, widely recognized as the best dentist in Willoughby Hills, offers personalized care and modern solutions to help you love your smile again.
Whether you’re in Willoughby Hills, Mentor, Wickliffe, Eastlake, or a nearby area, expert dental care is just a call away. Contact our dentist in Willoughby Hills by calling (440) 210-0999 to schedule your consultation.