Conditions
Tooth discoloration
Tooth discoloration is a change in the color of a tooth, such as yellow, brown, gray or dark spots. Stains, trauma, medicines and age can all play a part.
Tooth discoloration is when the color of your teeth changes. It refers to staining or darkening. There are two main types. Extrinsic stains affect the outer surface of the tooth, the enamel. Intrinsic discoloration comes from inside the tooth.
Causes include dark foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, berries and red wine, tobacco use, and dental trauma. Certain medicines, aging and cavities can also change tooth color. A single tooth that turns dark may signal a problem inside it, so it should be checked.
What helps depends on the cause. Options may include a professional cleaning, teeth whitening, bonding or veneers. Our office describes whitening on its teeth whitening page. Ask your dentist what fits your teeth.