Stained or Dark Teeth

Teeth are discolored for many reasons. The biggest clue to making your smile white and vibrant again is the color of the teeth.

Why are my teeth staining?

The most common reason for staining is that tooth enamel is made of crystal rods with spaces between that collect pigments from food and drink.

What are the dark brown stains on my teeth?

Smoking and tea, especially black tea, leave dark brown stains on the surface of teeth. These stains can be removed with ultrasonic cleaning by our dental hygienist. Long term smoking can also cause gray stains inside the teeth.

Can yellow teeth become white?

Long term coffee and tea drinking make teeth yellow. The best way to whiten yellow teeth is with professional teeth whitening. We use a peroxide gel that lifts stain out of enamel. It can be applied at home in a custom tray or in our office using a stronger gel for faster results. Age determines the best method and how quickly teeth may whiten.  Older teeth take longer to whiten.

Why won’t my teeth whiten?

As teeth age they dehydrate and become gray. Teeth whitening techniques may lighten gray teeth temporarily, but never get them truly white. We recommend porcelain veneers for gray    teeth to achieve a lasting white smile.

Why is my tooth dark?

A single dark tooth is usually not from staining. These teeth have lost blood circulation as a result of tooth trauma. They can be temporarily lightened by placing a bleach to the inside of the tooth after a root canal is performed.  Teeth lacking blood circulation continue to dehydrate and darken. A crown or veneer is the best solution for a lasting color match.

Horizontal brown bands, or stripes of gray, are the side effect of antibiotics, commonly used to treat acne. Stains from antibiotics go deep in teeth and get darker over time. Dr Kriston uses veneers and a masking technique to block out these stains and create radiantly natural white smiles.

Why do I have white spots on my teeth?

White spots are caused by mineral loss or damage to tooth enamel. The most common white spot is the start of a cavity. Acid made by bacteria causes a chalky white spot. Trauma to the mouth during the development of the permanent teeth can also cause white spots. Swallowing too much toothpaste can cause Fluorosis, a white spot lesion common in children. White spots near the surface can be removed by a polish paste that dissolves the affected enamel. Deeper or wide areas are better resolved with tooth bonding or a veneer.