Stained or Discolored Teeth

Why Are My Teeth Stained?

Tooth discoloration is one of the most common cosmetic dental concerns—and it doesn’t always have to do with brushing habits. Over time, teeth naturally lose their brightness due to aging, diet, and lifestyle choices. Coffee, tea, red wine, smoking, certain medications, and even genetics can all contribute to yellowing or surface stains. At Science of Smiles in Pasadena, Dr. Lee helps patients understand the causes behind tooth discoloration and offers safe, effective ways to restore a whiter, more radiant smile.

Types of Tooth Stains

Tooth stains fall into two main categories:

• Extrinsic stains: These affect the outer layer of the enamel and are usually caused by food, drinks, or tobacco.

• Intrinsic stains: These develop beneath the surface, often due to trauma, aging, certain medications (like tetracycline), or excessive fluoride exposure during childhood.

​

Dr. Lee will determine the type of staining you’re dealing with so we can recommend the best whitening or restorative option.

How We Treat Stained Teeth

At Science of Smiles, we offer customized treatment plans based on your specific type of discoloration and your smile goals:

• Professional Teeth Whitening: Our in-office Opalescence™ whitening system delivers fast, powerful results—often lightening your teeth several shades in just one visit.

• Take-Home Whitening Kits: Custom trays and prescription-strength gel let you brighten your teeth on your own time with consistent, safe results.

• Veneers or Bonding: For deep intrinsic stains that don’t respond to bleaching, porcelain veneers or cosmetic bonding can be used to completely transform the appearance of discolored teeth.

​

We always prioritize your comfort and safety—no harsh abrasives, no one-size-fits-all solutions.

How to Prevent Staining After Whitening