Tooth colour changes over a lifetime. Understanding why helps you choose the right way to deal with it.
Extrinsic (surface) stains
These form on the outside of the enamel.
- Drinks: tea, coffee, red wine and cola
- Tobacco and paan: smoking and chewing tobacco leave brown or black marks
- Tartar: rough deposits attract stains. See plaque vs tartar.
- Some mouthwashes and foods: certain rinses and strongly coloured foods
These are usually removed with a professional scaling and polishing.
Intrinsic (internal) stains
These lie within the tooth structure.
- Ageing: enamel wears thinner and the yellow dentine shows through
- Trauma: a knock can darken a tooth as the nerve is damaged
- Medicines: certain antibiotics taken in childhood can cause grey or brown banding
- Fluorosis: excess fluoride while teeth were forming leaves white or brown marks
- Decay and old fillings: dark patches under enamel or around restorations
How is each treated?
- Surface stains: professional cleaning and polishing through our preventive care.
- Mild internal stains: whitening. See whitening options.
- Stubborn or localised stains: bonding or veneers. See veneers vs bonding.
- Dark or dead tooth: internal whitening, veneer or crown, after the tooth is examined.
Prevention
- Brush twice a day, and clean between teeth
- Rinse with water after tea, coffee or wine
- Avoid tobacco in every form
- Have regular professional cleanings
Our cosmetic dentistry team can find the cause of your stain and recommend the right option.