Stained & Discolored Teeth Treatment in Los Angeles, CA
Coffee, red wine, aging, and even medications can leave your teeth looking dull, yellow, or gray. At Trident Dentistry, we identify the type of discoloration you have and recommend the right solution, from professional whitening to bonding and porcelain veneers.
Request an AppointmentWhy Teeth Become Stained
Tooth discoloration falls into two main categories, and understanding which type you have helps us choose the most effective treatment.
Extrinsic stains affect the outer enamel surface. They’re usually caused by coffee, tea, red wine, berries, soda, and tobacco. These stains typically respond very well to professional cleanings and teeth whitening.
Intrinsic stains develop inside the tooth and often appear as gray, white, or brownish areas. They can result from trauma, certain medications such as tetracycline taken during childhood, excessive fluoride exposure, a previous root canal, or thinning enamel that allows the yellow dentin underneath to show through. Intrinsic stains don’t usually respond to whitening and are better treated with bonding or veneers.
Other Causes of Discoloration
- Natural aging and enamel wear
- Genetics and naturally thinner enamel
- Tooth decay, which may appear as brown or black spots
- Old fillings or restorations that have darkened over time
- Plaque and tartar buildup from skipped cleanings
Because a dark spot can sometimes signal decay, it’s important to have discoloration evaluated before choosing a cosmetic treatment.
Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Products
Whitening strips, gels, and toothpastes may lighten teeth a shade or two, but they’re far less effective than in-office treatment, and some contain abrasives that can wear down enamel. At Trident Dentistry, we protect your gums with a barrier before applying a powerful professional whitening gel in carefully timed intervals for dramatic, even results. Ask about our Whitening for Life program.
Treatment Options for Stained Teeth
- Professional cleaning to remove surface stains and tartar
- In-office teeth whitening for extrinsic stains and overall brightening
- Dental bonding to cover isolated intrinsic stains
- Porcelain veneers for severe or whitening-resistant discoloration
- Tooth-colored crowns for discolored teeth that also need structural support
- Replacing old restorations that no longer match your smile
Whitening and Existing Dental Work
Whitening agents don’t change the color of porcelain veneers, crowns, or bonding. If you’re planning cosmetic dentistry, it’s best to whiten first so your new restorations can be matched to your brighter shade. Digital Smile Design lets you preview the final result. See whitening and veneer results in our Smile Gallery.
Keeping Your Smile Bright
Rinse with water after coffee or wine, use a straw for dark drinks, avoid tobacco, and maintain regular checkups. Patients with sensitive teeth should let us know so we can adjust their whitening plan. Explore all conditions we treat or our financing options.
Stained Teeth FAQs
What causes yellow teeth?
Yellow teeth are commonly caused by food and drink stains, tobacco, aging, and enamel thinning that lets the yellow dentin show through.
Can all stains be removed with whitening?
No. Surface stains respond well to whitening, but deep intrinsic stains and discoloration from trauma or medication are usually better treated with bonding or veneers.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Yes. In-office whitening is safe when performed by a dental professional. We protect your gums and monitor treatment to minimize sensitivity.
How long do whitening results last?
Results can last a year or longer depending on your habits. Touch-ups and avoiding staining foods help maintain your brighter smile.
Will whitening work on my crowns or veneers?
No. Whitening agents do not change the color of porcelain or composite restorations, so we recommend whitening before getting new cosmetic work.
Can a dark spot on my tooth be a cavity?
Yes. Brown or black spots can be a sign of decay, so it’s important to have them evaluated before cosmetic treatment.
What is the Whitening for Life program?
Whitening for Life is our ongoing whitening program. Contact our office at (310) 444-1445 for details on how it works.
Brighten Your Smile With Confidence
Find out which whitening or cosmetic solution is right for you. Call Trident Dentistry at (310) 444-1445 or request an appointment online.