Tooth Discolouration & Stains
Yellowing or staining — surface, internal or developmental — with tailored management options.
Overview
Tooth discolouration can be extrinsic (staining on the outside of the tooth) or intrinsic (changes inside the tooth structure). External stains usually come from tea, coffee, red wine, tobacco or chromogenic bacteria and are addressed by professional cleaning and whitening. Intrinsic discolouration, where the tooth itself has darkened, requires a different approach.
A single dark tooth often indicates previous trauma or a root canal. Generalised yellowing may reflect dentine showing through thinning enamel, or it may be genetic. In some cases — such as tetracycline staining or fluorosis — developmental factors are responsible.
We start with a careful assessment, then recommend the most suitable route: professional cleaning, whitening, internal bleaching of a single dark tooth, composite bonding, or porcelain veneers.
Common symptoms
- Yellow or stained teeth
- A single darkened tooth
- Surface staining along the gumline
- Uneven shade across teeth
Common causes
- Coffee, tea, red wine and other dietary pigments
- Tobacco use
- Trauma or a previous root canal
- Ageing (thinning enamel revealing dentine)
- Developmental or medication-related causes
Our approach
Comprehensive examination
We begin with a focused clinical examination, digital X-rays where indicated, and a full medical and dental history to build a complete picture of your symptoms.
Transparent diagnosis
You receive a clear explanation of what we find, shown on-screen with intra-oral imaging so you can see exactly what we see — no jargon, no pressure.
Options-based treatment plan
We present all suitable treatment options with realistic outcomes, timings and written costs so you can make an informed decision at your own pace.
Related conditions
White Spots
Chalky or opaque patches in enamel with several possible causes — each with a different management path.
Enamel Erosion
Gradual loss of the tooth's protective outer layer from repeated acid exposure — enamel does not grow back.
Craze Lines
Fine, superficial enamel cracks that are common in adults and usually harmless.
Cavities
Holes in the tooth surface caused by bacterial acids — treatable with a filling when caught early.
Get a clear answer, without pressure
Our team will examine, explain and give you all suitable options — with written costs you can take home.
Save 50% on every treatment
From £20/month. Add family for £10/month each. No joining fee.
- 50% off check-ups & hygiene
- 50% off cosmetic & restorative
- Priority appointment booking
- One simple monthly bill