Written by Diane Castillo on May 19, 2023

Black Stains On Teeth: The Different Aspects Of Teeth Discoloration

Black stains on teeth can be an unsightly and concerning dental issue that affects many individuals. They manifest as dark discolorations on the tooth surface, often causing embarrassment and negatively impacting self-esteem. While these stains have various causes, they are commonly associated with factors such as tobacco use, consumption of dark-colored foods and beverages, poor oral hygiene, and certain medications or medical conditions. Understanding the causes, prevention strategies, and treatment options for black stains on teeth is crucial in maintaining oral health and a confident smile. In this article, we will delve into black stains on teeth, exploring their causes, prevention methods, and available treatment options with the dentist in Burwood at Good Choice Dental to help individuals regain their dental aesthetics and confidence.

What’s the difference between extrinsic and intrinsic black teeth stains

Extrinsic and intrinsic black teeth stains refer to different types of dental discoloration based on their location and underlying causes:

Extrinsic Black Stains

Extrinsic stains are superficial stains on the tooth enamel’s outer surface. They are typically caused by external factors and substances that come into contact with the teeth. Extrinsic black stains can be caused by:

Dark-colored foods and beverages: Regular consumption of coffee, tea, red wine, or deeply pigmented foods can lead to extrinsic staining over time.
Tobacco use: Smoking or using tobacco products can cause extrinsic stains due to the nicotine and tar content.
Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing, flossing, and plaque removal can result in extrinsic staining as plaque and debris accumulate on the tooth surface.

Extrinsic black stains are usually easier to remove compared to intrinsic stains, and professional dental cleanings, whitening treatments, or improved oral hygiene practices can often effectively address them.

Intrinsic Black Stains

Intrinsic stains occur beneath the tooth enamel, within the inner part of the dentin layer. These stains can be more challenging to remove because they originate from within the tooth structure itself. Intrinsic black stains can be caused by:

Tooth decay (dental caries): If dental decay progresses and reaches the tooth’s inner layers, it can cause black discoloration.
Trauma or injury: A tooth that has experienced trauma or injury, such as a severe impact or root canal treatment, may develop intrinsic black staining.
Medications and medical conditions: Certain medications, such as liquid iron supplements, can cause intrinsic staining. Additionally, medical conditions or treatments like tetracycline use during tooth development or metal-based chemotherapy may lead to intrinsic discoloration.

Intrinsic black stains often require more extensive treatment approaches. Depending on the severity and underlying cause, treatment options may include dental restorations, such as composite fillings, dental bonding, or more advanced cosmetic procedures like dental veneers.

It’s important to consult with a dental professional or a dentist in St. Marys at Pearl Dental Care to accurately diagnose the type of staining and determine the most suitable treatment approach based on individual circumstances.

Causes of black teeth stains

The main causes of black stains on teeth can vary, but some common factors include:

Tobacco Use: Smoking or using tobacco products like cigarettes, cigars, or chewing tobacco can lead to black stains on teeth. The chemicals in tobacco, such as nicotine and tar, can adhere to tooth enamel and cause discoloration.
Consumption of Dark-Colored Foods and Beverages: Regularly consuming dark-colored foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and certain spices can contribute to tooth staining over time. The pigments in these substances can gradually accumulate on the tooth enamel, leading to a black extrinsic tooth stain.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate oral hygiene practices, such as infrequent brushing, flossing, and improper cleaning techniques, can result in plaque buildup on the teeth. Plaque can trap pigments from food and beverages, causing stains to develop and potentially turn black if left untreated.
Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications, such as liquid iron supplements or specific mouth rinses, can cause teeth to develop black stains. Additionally, some medical conditions or treatments like metal-based chemotherapy or radiation therapy can lead to dental discoloration.
Dental Materials and Restorations: Certain dental materials used in the past, such as silver amalgam fillings, may cause adjacent teeth to develop black stains due to metal oxidation or leakage. Similarly, dental restorations that have deteriorated or become discolored over time can contribute to the appearance of black stains.

It’s important to note that the causes of black stains on teeth can vary from person to person, and a thorough evaluation by a dental professional is necessary to determine the specific cause and appropriate treatment.

Ways to prevent black tooth stains

To prevent black stains on teeth and minimize tooth decay, tooth discoloration, stained teeth, gum line issues, and dark stains, consider implementing the following preventive measures:

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice daily using fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Pay close attention to the gum line and back teeth to remove plaque and prevent stains from forming.
Practice Proper Brushing Technique: Use gentle, circular motions while brushing, ensuring you reach all tooth surfaces, including the back teeth. Brushing for at least two minutes helps to effectively remove plaque and prevent staining.
Floss Daily: Regular flossing helps remove plaque and food particles between the teeth and the gum line. This reduces the risk of stains and tooth decay in hard-to-reach areas.
Rinse with Water after Consuming Staining Substances: When consuming dark-colored foods or beverages like coffee, tea, or red wine, rinse your mouth with water afterward to help minimize the staining effects. Swishing water around your mouth can help remove some pigments that cause stains.
Use a Straw: When drinking beverages that may stain your teeth, such as coffee or soda, use a straw to direct the liquid to the back of your mouth. This can help minimize contact between the staining substances and your tooth enamel.
Quit Smoking and Tobacco Use: If you smoke or use tobacco products, quitting can significantly reduce the risk of black stains on your teeth and promote better oral health.
Limit Consumption of Staining Foods and Drinks: While it may be challenging to completely avoid staining substances, limit your consumption of foods and beverages known to cause tooth discoloration. Additionally, consider using a whitening toothpaste formulated to remove surface stains.
Maintain Regular Dental Check-ups: Visit your dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings. Professional cleanings help remove stubborn stains and tartar buildup that may contribute to discoloration.
Consider Professional Teeth Whitening: If you already have black stains on your teeth, professional teeth whitening treatments performed by a dental professional can effectively lighten the stains and restore a brighter smile.

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily oral care routine and seeking professional dental care, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing black stains on your teeth and maintain a healthy, bright smile.

Teeth Stain Treatment

To help individuals regain their dental aesthetics and confidence by addressing dental decay, tooth discoloration, liquid iron supplements, black extrinsic tooth stains, tooth stains, and dental caries, several treatment options are available:

Professional Dental Cleaning by a Dental Hygienist: A dental hygienist can perform a thorough cleaning, including scaling and polishing, to remove plaque, tartar, and surface stains from the teeth. This helps improve the overall appearance and oral health.
Teeth Whitening: Teeth whitening treatments can effectively remove stains and discoloration from the tooth surface, including black extrinsic tooth stains. Professional teeth whitening procedures, such as in-office bleaching or take-home whitening kits prescribed by a dentist, utilize bleaching agents to lighten the tooth color and restore a brighter smile.
Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves applying tooth-colored resin to the affected teeth. It can be used to cover black extrinsic tooth stains or to reshape chipped or misshapen teeth. The resin is bonded to the tooth surface and shaped to match the natural tooth appearance, improving aesthetics.
Dental Veneers: Veneers are thin shells, usually made of porcelain, that are custom-made to fit over the front surface of teeth. They can effectively cover severe tooth stains, discoloration, and imperfections, providing a natural-looking, brighter smile.
Composite Fillings or Restorations: The affected teeth may require fillings or restorations if dental decay or dental caries have caused black stains or discoloration. Composite resin materials can restore the tooth structure, matching the natural tooth color and improving aesthetics.
Orthodontic Treatment: In cases where tooth misalignment contributes to the appearance of stains or discoloration, orthodontic treatment, such as braces or clear aligners, can help align the teeth properly. This can enhance the overall aesthetics of the smile and make oral hygiene practices more effective.
Oral Health Education and Prevention: Educating individuals about proper oral hygiene practices, including regular brushing, flossing, and maintaining a healthy diet, is essential for preventing tooth stains and dental decay. Promoting good oral hygiene habits can help individuals maintain their dental aesthetics and prevent future dental issues.

It’s important to consult with a qualified dentist or dental professional to determine the most appropriate treatment options based on individual needs and oral health conditions. They can provide personalized recommendations to help individuals regain their dental aesthetics and confidence effectively.

Popular natural remedies to remove black stains on teeth

While natural remedies for removing black stains on teeth may not provide the same level of effectiveness as professional dental treatments, some popular options are believed to help lighten stains. It’s important to note that these remedies should be used cautiously, as excessive or improper use may damage tooth enamel. Here are a few popular natural remedies:

Oil Pulling: This ancient practice involves swishing a tablespoon of oil (such as coconut, sesame, or sunflower oil) in the mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spitting it out. It is believed to help remove bacteria and toxins from the teeth and gums, potentially reducing surface stains.
Baking Soda: Brushing with a paste made of baking soda and water is thought to have mild abrasive properties that can help scrub away surface stains. However, it should be used sparingly as excessive use may erode tooth enamel.
Hydrogen Peroxide: Diluted hydrogen peroxide (3% concentration) can be used as a mouthwash or mixed with baking soda to create a paste. It may help whiten teeth by breaking down stains, but it should be used in moderation and rinsed thoroughly afterward.
Lemon or Orange Peel: Rubbing the inside of a lemon or orange peel on the teeth is believed to help remove stains due to their natural acidity. However, prolonged exposure to citric acid can potentially erode tooth enamel, so it’s essential to rinse thoroughly afterward and avoid excessive use.
Strawberries: Mashing strawberries and applying the pulp directly to the teeth or mixing it with baking soda to form a paste is thought to have whitening properties. Strawberries contain malic acid, which is believed to help break down stains. However, like other acidic remedies, it should be used cautiously to avoid enamel erosion.

Remember that natural remedies may vary in effectiveness, and their impact on individual teeth may differ. It is always advisable to consult with a dentist before trying any natural remedies and to prioritize regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning for optimal oral health.