Introduction
Discoloured and stained teeth are often a source of concern and make an individual apprehensive about their appearance. While we all appreciate bright white and glistening teeth, it is fair to say that not all of us are born with perfect pearly whites. Many genetic and environmental factors can play a role in deciding our teeth’ colour.
However, there may be times when a tooth has started to change its colour almost immediately. Teeth stains and discolourations can be due to a plethora of reasons, and there are many ways to treat them. Read ahead to learn more about why your teeth are getting discoloured.
Why Do Teeth Get Discoloured?
Teeth stains can be of two types: Extrinsic and Intrinsic.
Extrinsic Causes
Extrinsic stains are present on the external surface of the teeth and are the result of wear and tear, environmental factors, and dietary habits such as excessive coffee and tea consumption, carbonated drinks, and smoking or tobacco use.
Extrinsic stains can be treated seamlessly with the help of regular in-office teeth whitening procedures.
Intrinsic Causes
Intrinsic staining affects the inner layers of a tooth and may occur due to one of the following reasons:
Genetics
Some of us have naturally yellow teeth in comparison to others. The colour of our teeth is genetically determined. In some cases, individuals may be affected with developmental disorders such as dentinogenesis imperfecta and certain syndromes, which can also cause discolouration of the teeth.
Antibiotic Exposure
Certain antibiotics, such as tetracycline, have been linked to permanent teeth staining. If a woman has been treated with tetracycline during pregnancy, it can affect the child’s teeth. These antibiotics are known to cause teeth to turn greenish-brown to yellow in colour, usually visible after the age of six when permanent teeth start erupting.
Ageing
With age, enamel becomes brittle and exposes the underlying yellow dentine, responsible for teeth discolouration.
Dental Fillings and Restorations
Certain dental restorations, especially silver amalgam, can discolour the tooth from grey to black as it affects the inner layers.
Root Canal Treatment
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment may become discoloured and take a grayish-black appearance.
Trauma to the Teeth
Any injury or trauma can cause the tooth to turn darker (greyish or black). This happens because the dental pulp is affected, cutting off the blood supply, which causes the tooth to die and change colour.
Dead Teeth
Any infection or trauma can cause a tooth to lose vitality and turn dark or greyish.
Bruised Teeth / Pink Teeth
Trauma or decay may cause blood to escape from pulpal vessels and get trapped in the tooth layers, giving a pinkish discolouration. This condition, known as internal resorption, may require a root canal.
Excessive Fluoride Exposure
Fluoride strengthens teeth, but excessive exposure can cause fluorosis, leading to whitish streaks or pitted brown stains.
What Can Be Done When a Tooth Changes Its Colour?
Many treatment protocols can be used to correct stained teeth. For this blog, we will focus on intrinsic teeth discolouration and how dentists like me can treat it with the internal bleaching technique.
What Is Internal Bleaching?
Internal bleaching in Luxembourg is a method of teeth whitening designed to whiten root canal treated, traumatised, or dead teeth that have changed colour from the inside.
Teeth that have undergone root canal treatment tend to discolour over time. Internal bleaching may take 3–4 months to achieve desired results. Periodic evaluations are done to ensure the treated teeth match the shade of adjacent healthy teeth.
Procedure for Internal Bleaching
Internal bleaching is an invasive teeth whitening procedure and is strictly reserved for root canal treated or traumatised teeth.
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A complete oral examination is carried out to assess discolouration.
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The teeth are isolated with a rubber dam and cleaned.
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The current shade is recorded.
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The filling is removed from the top portion of the tooth.
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The pulp chamber is cleaned of any remaining material.
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Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is applied inside the tooth.
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This process may be repeated 2–3 times until desired results are achieved.
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The tooth is finally washed, cleaned, and restored with tooth-coloured composite resin.
⚠️ It’s important to remember that internal bleaching may take time to show full results since discolouration is deep-seated.
Benefits of Internal Bleaching
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Non-invasive and affordable compared to crowns or veneers
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Conservative approach – preserves tooth structure
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Highly effective in stain removal
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Enhances tooth appearance and aesthetics
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Improves overall smile and facial aesthetics
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Brighter teeth can make you look younger
Is Internal Teeth Bleaching Safe?
There’s a misconception that internal bleaching is dangerous. However, modern dental advancements make it a safe and effective procedure when done by a qualified dentist.
The root portion is sealed to ensure the bleaching agent doesn’t irritate tissues like gums or bone. Hence, no risk of irritation or damage occurs when performed properly.
Are There Any Risks or Disadvantages?
Like all dental treatments, internal bleaching carries minor risks:
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It may take multiple appointments to achieve desired results.
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The treated tooth may appear whiter initially than adjacent teeth.
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Results last up to 2 years, after which touch-ups may be needed.
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Slightly more invasive than external bleaching as drilling is required.
Conclusion
I hope this blog provided you with a deep insight into why your tooth is changing colour and what can be done about it.
If your discoloured root canal treated tooth is bothering you, you may benefit from internal bleaching.
I encourage all my patients to have an open discussion before starting any treatment.
If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to reach out to me.
I, Dr. Viorel Talpa, and my team of dental professionals are here to assist you in achieving excellent oral health.
