Can Teeth Whitening Remove Deep Stains?
Teeth whitening can be effective at removing both surface stains and some deep stains, but its effectiveness depends on the cause of the discoloration. Surface stains caused by foods, drinks, and tobacco are more easily lifted by the bleaching agents used in whitening treatments. Deep stains, however, may result from factors such as aging, certain medications (like tetracycline), trauma to the teeth, or excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development. While professional teeth whitening can help lighten these deep stains, it may not completely remove them.
For more stubborn stains that do not respond well to standard teeth whitening, your dentist may recommend alternative treatments such as veneers or dental bonding to achieve the desired brightness. In-office whitening treatments that use stronger bleaching agents or light-activated technologies can sometimes achieve better results for deep stains compared to at-home whitening kits. It's best to consult with your dentist to determine the severity of the stains and the most effective treatment plan.
