There are two main types of staining that occurs on teeth. The first is referred to as extrinsic staining while the second is what is known as intrinsic. In both cases, the teeth appear visibly duller and can have a color that ranges from yellowish to brownish.
Extrinsic stains are stains that are only found on the surface of the teeth. The staining process can occur due to the consumption of food or beverages that are dark in color. For example, cola, coffee, and even tobacco can cause the teeth to become discolored. Superficial stains are minor problems that can be removed by good brushing of the teeth and even prophylactic cleanings. However, those that are more stubborn can be dealt with by using teeth bleaching agents such as a whitening pen. These stains penetrate to the inner layer of the teeth called the dentin and would thus need a whitening agent in order to be removed.
Intrinsic stains are those that are found on the inside of teeth and can result from trauma, exposure to minerals, or aging. Intrinsic stains were once thought to be resistant to whitening procedures and agents. However, cosmetic dentistry has made it possible for these stains to be visibly reduced and even eliminated. It may take longer in terms of treatments, lasting for several months up to a year. These types of stains are sometimes hard to treat with teeth whitening pens and may need to be removed with the help of bleaching sessions at the dentist’s office.