Why are my teeth discoloured?

Generally, the discolouration of teeth is mostly attributable to external staining. This staining comes from food, drink and other habits like smoking. Calculus (the mineralised plaque deposits on teeth) is a major factor.

With time and if untreated, this staining can become more established and begins to affect the layers beneath the surface.

Wear, tear and fracture lines can also change the surface properties of the enamel and allow the staining to be carried deeper into the tooth tissue, all leading to the effect of discolouration.

Sometimes genetic influences and medical issues during development can contribute to an apparently darker appearance of the teeth.

How can I whiten my teeth?

In most individuals, merely having the teeth cleaned by a hygienist can radically improve the appearance of the teeth to the point where patients no longer feel the need to consider any other option. If you are going to consider home-whitening or ‘laser’ treatments, then we would recommended you have your teeth cleaned by a hygienist first. If you do not, then any staining or deposits on the surface will prevent the whitening gels from reaching the enamel and taking their effect.

Normal teeth-whitening involves bleaching the teeth using a specially formulated gel. The teeth will not be bright white, but it usually improves the shade. Remember that this method will not change the colour of existing crowns, bridges or tooth-coloured fillings. You may need to have these restorations changed in order to match the ‘new’ shade of the whitened teeth.

The results will vary between individuals and so it is not always easy to give a patient an indication of how effective the treatment will be.

Who can perform teeth-whitening?

By law only registered healthcare professionals can conduct tooth-whitening procedures.

You can read the General Dental Council’s position statement on the subject using the following link www.gdc-uk.org/api/files/Tooth-Whitening-Position-Statement.pdf

What are the potential risks of whitening?

The most notable risks are the increase of sensitivity to cold and hot. In most people, this effects are transient, although in some cases they can remain for many months or even years.

Less commonly, the whitening chemicals can also damage the enamel of the teeth or cause irritation and inflammation of the gums. For this reason, the treatment should be conducted under the supervision of your healthcare professional and you should very carefully follow the instructions.