What Causes Tooth Discoloration and What You Can Do About It
Sep 26, 2025
A bright smile boosts your confidence, but over time, teeth can lose their sparkle. Tooth discoloration is very common, and it happens for many different reasons.
At Llanos Dental Group, we want our patients to understand the causes of tooth discoloration and what solutions are available to restore a healthy, radiant smile.
Discoloration refers to changes in the natural shade of your teeth. This can manifest as yellowing, dark spots, or a gray or brown tint.
For some people, the change is gradual, while others notice it after adopting a particular habit, taking a medication, or reaching a specific stage of life.
Genetics has a significant role in tooth shade. Some people are simply born with naturally darker enamel or thinner enamel that shows the dentin more clearly.
Other potential causes of tooth discoloration include:
Some of the most common culprits are what we eat and drink. Coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and even dark-colored fruits like blueberries can stain tooth enamel over time.
Substances in tea and coffee, like theaflavins, stain the enamel, while pigments in foods attach to the surface of teeth and cause discoloration.
Smoking or chewing tobacco is a significant cause of yellow and brown stains on teeth. Nicotine and tar penetrate the enamel, making the stains very difficult to remove without professional help.
When plaque and tartar build up on teeth, they can cause discoloration. Skipping brushing or flossing allows stains to stick and also increases your risk of cavities and gum disease.
With age, the enamel on teeth naturally wears down, exposing the yellowish dentin layer underneath. This is a normal process, but it can make teeth look less bright.
Certain medications can darken teeth. Antibiotics like tetracycline, when taken in childhood, can leave permanent grayish stains.
Some blood pressure drugs, antihistamines, and chemotherapy treatments can also affect tooth color.
A blow to the mouth can damage the inside of a tooth, causing it to appear darker. This type of discoloration is internal and won’t improve with whitening toothpaste.
There are two main categories of discoloration. Extrinsic discoloration happens on the surface of the enamel, usually caused by food, drinks, or tobacco.
Intrinsic discoloration originates from within the tooth, typically resulting from injury, medication, or developmental issues. Intrinsic stains are usually more challenging to treat.
Here are some suggestions for keeping your teeth pearly white:
Brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, flossing every day, and visiting your dentist regularly are the first steps in preventing stains. Consistent care keeps your teeth strong and minimizes plaque buildup.
Regular cleanings at Llanos Dental Group help remove surface stains and tartar that brushing alone can’t. This is one of the simplest ways to brighten your smile.
Professional whitening treatments safely lift stains and lighten teeth by several shades in just one visit. Unlike over-the-counter products, in-office whitening is stronger, faster, and supervised by dental professionals.
Custom whitening trays from your dentist allow you to whiten your teeth at home with professional-grade gel. This option offers convenience while providing safe and reliable results.
For severe or stubborn discoloration, veneers may be the best solution. They are thin porcelain shells that cover the front of your teeth, giving them a bright, even look. Veneers also address chips, gaps, and uneven shapes.
If a tooth is badly stained due to trauma or root canal treatment, a crown restores its natural appearance while also protecting its strength.
While some causes of discoloration, such as aging or genetics, are unavoidable, many are preventable. Here are some tips:
Tooth discoloration is nothing to be embarrassed about; it’s a common concern with many effective solutions. We provide personalized treatment plans to match your goals and lifestyle, from whitening to veneers and beyond.
If you’ve noticed your teeth aren’t as bright as they used to be, we’re here to help. Together, we can restore your smile and your confidence.
Contact Llanos Dental Group today by phone or online to explore your options for a brighter, healthier smile.