Stains from coffee, tea and snus: what can you do?
· Sarab Koyar Salehi, Licensed dental hygienist · 1 min read
It is very common for teeth to take on a yellower or browner tone over time. Often it is not that the teeth are unhealthy, but that there are stains on the surface.
What causes stains?
| Cause | Type of stain |
|---|---|
| Coffee and tea | Surface, yellow-brown deposits |
| Red wine | Surface, often darker tones |
| Snus and tobacco | Surface, can be stubborn |
| Injury to the tooth or some medications | Can sit inside the tooth |
What you can do yourself
- Brush carefully twice a day.
- Rinse your mouth with water after coffee, tea or red wine.
- Clean between your teeth every day.
What does Airflow do?
Airflow mixes water, air and a fine powder that dissolves stains and soft deposits. It is gentle on gums and enamel and leaves the tooth surfaces smooth and clean. Many people find it more comfortable than traditional polishing.
What can't Airflow do?
What does not help
Scrubbing hard, or using homemade mixes with lemon or baking soda. It can wear down tooth enamel and make teeth more sensitive, see sensitive teeth.
Want teeth lighter than their own colour? Read about teeth whitening or Airflow.
Airflow is not bleaching. It removes what sits on the surface so that your teeth's own colour shows. Some discolouration sits inside the tooth, and then a different solution is needed. Tell me what you are wondering about when you book, and we will go through it together.
Frequently asked questions
Will my teeth be whiter after Airflow?
Airflow removes surface stains so your natural tooth colour shows. It is not bleaching.
Is Airflow safe for sensitive teeth?
For many people it is much gentler than traditional polishing. Tell me if you are sensitive and I will adapt.
How often can you have Airflow?
It depends on how quickly the stains return. Many people have it as part of their regular cleaning.
Can I use baking soda or lemon at home?
It is not recommended. It can wear down the enamel. Let a dental hygienist clean your teeth.
This text is general information and does not replace an individual assessment. Book a visit if you have symptoms or questions.
Questions about your oral health?
