Understanding a Cavity vs Stain
Tooth discoloration can present itself in shades of black, brown, yellow, and chalky white. Changes in the color of teeth are either from dental cavities or stains. The difference between a cavity vs stain is the level of harm to your tooth.
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Common Causes of Tooth Stain
When debating cavity vs stain, it’s important to understand the difference. There are two types of dental stain, intrinsic and extrinsic. Intrinsic stains are when discoloration penetrates the layers of the tooth changing the overall color to hues of greys and yellows. Extrinsic stains are surface stains that attach to the outer layer of the enamel. Common causes of tooth stain are:
- Diet: Foods and beverages that contain natural or additive dyes will stain teeth. If your food or beverage can stain a white shirt, then it can stain your teeth.
- Smoking: The nicotine and other contents of cigarettes and cigars attach to the tooth’s surface creating yellow, black, or brown stains.
- Dry Mouth: Having chronic dry mouth increases the risk of tooth stains. The lack of saliva flow throughout the day prevents your body from cleaning food, plaque, and bacteria off of the teeth.
- Mouth Breathing: Similar to dry mouth, mouth breathing affects the body’s ability to neutralize and clean off food, plaque, and bacteria.
- Medications: Certain prescribed products and medications have the side effect of dental stain.
How Get Rid of Dental Stains
To remove and prevent dental stains:
- Use an electric toothbrush 2 times a day for 2 minutes and floss daily.
- Select whitening toothpaste and mouthwash and use at least at night.
- Drink water throughout the day to cleanse the mouth.
- Drink staining beverages through a straw to avoid repeated splashing on the teeth.
- Visit the dentist at least every 6 months for dental cleanings.
- Ask your dentist about professional whitening treatments or at-home kits. Learn more with our Effective Tooth Whitening Treatments Guide.
For more tips about maintaining a lasting white smile, check out our Tips For Whitening article.
Common Causes of Dental Cavities
Debating if your tooth’s discoloration is a cavity vs stain can be difficult. Cavities may first appear like stains, but grow in size and become sensitive. The main causes of tooth decay are:
- Diet: Bacteria in the mouth consume sugar and produce acid. A high sugar diet leads to more active bacteria and a higher risk of cavities.
- Aggressive Bacteria: Some patients have more aggressive bacteria in the mouth. The main culprit of cavities is Streptococcus Mutans (S. Mutans).
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Daily brushing and flossing are important to mechanically remove food, plaque, and bacteria that work together to cause cavities.
- Dry Mouth: Having decreased saliva flow increases bacteria’s activity. Saliva contains minerals that help neutralize bacteria and stabilize tooth and gum health.
How Cavities Develop
- Incipient Decay: This is when the cavity is just starting to grow through the outer layer of the tooth. At this stage, there is a chance of remineralizing to stop the cavity progression.
- Enamel Decay: At this stage, the infected portion is mostly through the enamel or the outermost layer of the tooth. The cavity will need to be treated but may not need any anesthesia at the dentist.
- Dentin Decay: The cavities in between teeth have now reached the second layer of the tooth, the dentin. The cavity can spread faster through this layer because it is softer than enamel. All chances of can you reverse cavities are not possible at this stage.
- Pulpitis: The pulp is the home of the nerve and blood vessels. At this stage, the infected portion of the tooth has reached the innermost layer. Pain and pressure are most likely present from the infection.
- Abscess: The infection has spread all the way down to the root. At this stage, an antibiotic is most likely needed. A root canal or extracting the tooth is the best treatment plan to resolve the infection. It is important to see a dentist at this stage because it can be life-threatening.
Cavity vs Stain
Main Differences in Cavities
- The discoloration is usually dark brown, black, or chalky white.
- Cavities are softer due to the demineralizing process.
- There is increased sensitivity to temperatures, pressure, and sweets.
- Cavities need intervention from your dentist to be fixed.
Main Differences in Stain
- The discoloration is usually different hues of yellow and brown.
- Staining is hard and builds upon the tooth’s outer surface.
- Stains do not cause any sensitivity.
- Stains can be removed by whitening products, good oral hygiene, and dental cleanings.
Additional information is in our The Signs of Cavities article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does tooth staining mean cavity?
Staining on the tooth’s surface does not mean the discoloration is a cavity. It does mean that you can improve brushing in that area. Bacteria in the mouth can also cling to stain easier because of the rough surface.
Is a brown spot on tooth a cavity?
A brown spot on the tooth’s surface can be a cavity or a stain. See the above differences of cavity vs stain to evaluate your symptoms. Your dental professionals will help identify and treat the brown spot.
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