Yellow or Stained Teeth
Teeth darken with age and stain from food, drinks and smoking. Several options can brighten them.
What is yellow or stained teeth?
Discolouration can be on the surface (extrinsic) or within the tooth (intrinsic). Surface stains often come off with a professional clean. Deeper colour may respond to whitening, or need veneers or crowns.
Common causes
- Coffee, tea, red wine and cola
- Smoking
- Ageing and thinning enamel
- Some medicines
- Trauma to a tooth
Symptoms
- Yellow, brown or grey colour
- Uneven colour between teeth
- Dark single tooth
How we treat it
A check-up and clean is the first step. Professional whitening suits many people. Veneers or crowns may be options when whitening is not enough.
Treatments that can help
Frequently asked questions
Can whitening fix all stains?
No. Some deep stains and dark single teeth respond poorly. We will explain your options.
Is a dark tooth a problem?
A single dark tooth can mean the nerve has died. Have it checked.
Is it urgent? Call us the same day for severe pain, swelling or a knocked-out tooth. If swelling affects your breathing or swallowing, go to your nearest hospital emergency department or call 000.