Stained or Yellow Teeth

What causes stained or yellow teeth?

Surface stains come from coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and other pigmented foods and drinks. Teeth can also look more yellow with age as the outer enamel thins and the yellower layer beneath, called dentin, shows through. Deeper discoloration can come from certain medications taken in childhood, an injury to a tooth, or old fillings that have darkened.

How are stains removed or covered?

How does Dr. Lee choose the right treatment?

Dr. Lee examines your teeth to see whether the discoloration is on the surface or within the tooth, and whether existing fillings or crowns are involved. She also checks that your teeth and gums are healthy before any whitening. She then explains what each option can achieve so you can choose the result you want.

Why choose professional whitening over store-bought products?

Professional whitening uses stronger gels than store-bought kits, and Dr. Lee chooses the approach based on your staining and any sensitivity. She also protects your gums during treatment. She also identifies stains that whitening will not change, so you know what to expect before you begin.

When should you schedule an evaluation?

Schedule an evaluation when you would like a brighter smile, or when a single tooth darkens compared with its neighbors. A single darkening tooth can follow an injury or a change in the nerve, and Dr. Lee will evaluate it before suggesting cosmetic options.