Discoloured Teeth – Causes and Treatment in Basingstoke
It’s completely normal for teeth to change colour over time. Whether it’s a gradual dulling or a noticeable yellow or grey tone, many of our patients come to us looking for answers – and solutions – for discoloured teeth. If you’ve found yourself covering your mouth when smiling or feeling self-conscious in photos, we want you to know you’re not alone. Discolouration is incredibly common, and there are safe, effective ways to improve it.
Our goal is to help you feel more confident in your smile without over-promising or over-treating. Discoloured teeth aren’t just about appearance – they can sometimes be linked to your overall oral health. That’s why we always take a complete view of your needs, not just the surface level.
What Causes Discoloured Teeth?
At Hampshire Dental Care, we take a gentle and honest approach to cosmetic concerns. Rather than rushing into treatment, we start by understanding why your teeth have changed colour. That way, we can recommend the most appropriate way forward – whether it’s professional whitening, addressing enamel wear, or helping you avoid habits that are contributing to the change.
There are several reasons teeth can become stained, darkened, or yellowed. Understanding the cause is key to finding the right treatment. Some of the most common reasons include:
Diet
Regular consumption of tea, coffee, red wine, or richly pigmented foods can gradually stain the outer surface of your teeth.
Smoking and tobacco
These are among the most common causes of yellow and brown staining on the teeth.
Ageing
As we age, the enamel wears thin, revealing more of the natural dentine beneath—which has a yellowish tone.
Poor oral hygiene
Plaque and tartar can make teeth look darker, and can also lead to gum disease if not addressed.
Medication
Certain antibiotics and medical treatments may cause internal discolouration, especially if taken during early tooth development.
Fluorosis or trauma
Overexposure to fluoride in childhood, or injury to a tooth, can sometimes cause spots, lines, or dark patches.
We’ll assess your individual case carefully, so we can recommend a treatment that’s both safe and suitable for you.
Can Yellow Teeth Become White Again?
This is one of the most common questions we hear: can yellow teeth become white again? The answer is yes – in many cases, they can. If the discolouration is on the surface of the tooth (extrinsic), it often responds well to professional teeth whitening or even a thorough clean by a hygienist. If the discolouration is internal (intrinsic), we may still be able to improve the appearance with advanced whitening treatments or other cosmetic options such as composite bonding or veneers.
We’ll always start with a detailed consultation to check the cause of the staining, assess the health of your teeth, and guide you through the most suitable treatment options. You’ll have a clear understanding of what’s possible – and what’s realistic – before making any decisions.
Treatments for Discoloured Teeth
Depending on your needs, we may recommend one or more of the following:
Professional Teeth Whitening
Safe, dentist-supervised whitening using custom trays and prescription-strength gel. It’s ideal for tackling yellow or dull-looking teeth caused by ageing or surface stains
Hygienist Cleaning (Scale and Polish)
Sometimes, all that’s needed is a good clean to remove plaque, tartar and surface stains. This is often the first step before exploring other cosmetic treatments.
Composite Bonding
A quick and effective way to mask stubborn stains or irregularities using a tooth-coloured resin material. Bonding is shaped and polished to look like a natural part of your tooth.
Veneers
For deeper discolouration that doesn’t respond to whitening, veneers can be used to cover the front surface of the teeth with a custom-made porcelain shell. This is more involved, but can produce dramatic, long-lasting results.
Lifestyle and Oral Care Advice
We’ll help you identify any daily habits that may be affecting your tooth colour and offer practical advice to keep your smile brighter for longer.
Why Choose Hampshire Dental Care?
We understand that discoloured teeth can affect how you feel every day. Our team is here to provide expert care in a relaxed, supportive setting – whether you’re looking for subtle improvement or a complete refresh. We’ll never push you toward unnecessary treatments or promise “perfect” results. Instead, we focus on giving you honest advice, personalised care, and long-term solutions that you can trust.
We’re experienced in cosmetic dentistry and have helped many patients across Basingstoke and the surrounding areas achieve a smile they feel proud of. If you’re not sure where to start, we’ll guide you through your options without pressure or judgement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will whitening work on all types of stains?
Whitening is most effective on yellow-toned stains caused by diet or ageing. Brown, grey, or internal stains may need alternative treatments such as bonding or veneers. We’ll assess this during your consultation.
Is it safe to whiten sensitive teeth?
Yes, we can adapt your whitening treatment to suit sensitive teeth. We use gentler formulas and provide advice on managing sensitivity during and after treatment.
How long do the results of whitening last?
Results can last anywhere from several months to a few years, depending on your lifestyle and oral care. We offer top-up treatments to help you maintain your results.
Can discoloured teeth be a sign of a health problem?
In some cases, yes. Discolouration caused by trauma, infection or underlying dental issues may need to be assessed further. That’s why we always carry out a full dental check before cosmetic treatment.
If you're concerned about discoloured teeth or simply want to know what options are available, we’re here to help. Contact our friendly team in Basingstoke to arrange a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter, more confident smile.
