Tooth stains occur when pigments from food, drinks, plaque, or internal changes in the tooth alter the colour of your enamel or dentine. Staining can range from mild surface discolouration to deeper, more persistent changes that require targeted treatment.
There are two main types: extrinsic stains, which sit on the surface of the teeth, and intrinsic stains, which occur within the tooth structure. Extrinsic stains are usually easier to treat at home with whitening or stain-lifting products, while intrinsic stains may need professional guidance.
This page focuses on helping you understand what causes tooth staining, how to reduce it, and which products support a brighter smile.
For a deeper guide to improving tooth colour, see our article: How to Remove Stains from Teeth
What Causes Tooth Stains?
There are several reasons stains develop on teeth, ranging from daily habits to structural changes inside the tooth. Key causes include:
- Food and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark sauces, and berries contain strong pigments that cling to enamel.
- Plaque buildup traps pigments and makes staining appear more noticeable.
- Smoking or vaping can cause yellow or brown surface stains that develop quickly.
- Ageing naturally thins enamel, making the underlying dentine more visible.
- Poor oral hygiene allows stains to set more deeply into plaque and enamel.
- Medications like certain antibiotics or mouth rinses can cause discolouration.
- Trauma to a tooth can lead to internal staining if the nerve is affected.
How to Treat and Prevent Stained Teeth
Improving stained teeth involves removing surface pigments, strengthening enamel, and maintaining habits that reduce new discolouration.
- Brush twice daily with a whitening or stain-removal toothpaste to help lift surface stains.
- Use a whitening mouthwash to reduce staining and support enamel brightness.
- Try whitening strips, pens, or gels for deeper stain removal at home. Explore our full teeth whitening range.
- Rinse with water after meals to limit how long pigments sit on your teeth.
- Limit heavily pigmented foods and drinks, or use a straw when possible.
- Quit smoking or vaping to slow down yellow and brown surface staining.
- Visit your dentist for a professional clean if stains are difficult to remove or you suspect tartar buildup.
Recommended Products for Tooth Stains
We’ve selected dentist-approved whitening and stain-reduction products that help brighten your smile safely and effectively:
Whitening toothpaste – helps lift surface stains with gentle polishing agents
Whitening pens – freshens breath while supporting enamel brightness
Whitening strips and gels – ideal for deeper or older stains
Electric toothbrushes – provide better stain removal than manual brushing
Interdental cleaning tools – reduce plaque, which makes stains more noticeable
Explore our full Teeth Whitening Range for more detailed options.
Why Shop With Us?
At The House of Mouth, we understand how frustrating stained teeth can be, especially when they affect your confidence in your smile. Our curated range includes dentist-approved whitening products and everyday oral care solutions designed to help you lift stains safely and achieve a brighter result.
Whether you’re managing mild discolouration or looking for more noticeable whitening, we’re here to help you choose the right products with confidence.
(07) 55 34 8603
