Tooth Discoloration & Tartar Removal in Stockholm

Discoloration of tooth is often linked to plaque and tartar that trap pigments on the enamel surface. While daily brushing helps with fresh plaque, hardened tartar (calculus) requires professional cleaning to protect your gums and brighten your smile. At Gloss & Floss in Södermalm, we combine gentle technology and expert care to remove stains, control tartar, and restore natural tooth colour.

What causes tooth discoloration and tartar?

• Food & drinks: coffee, tea, red wine, cola, and dark berries.
• Tobacco: smoke and snus leave yellow–brown stains that cling to tartar.
• Oral hygiene gaps: plaque stays longer and mineralises into tartar along the gumline.
• Dry mouth & aging: reduced saliva and enamel wear make stains stick more easily.
• Medications & minerals: Some mouthrinses and iron supplements can darken teeth.

Symptoms to watch for

• Yellow, brown, or grey discoloration of the tooth, especially near the gumline.
• Rough, uneven surfaces you feel with the tongue.
• Bleeding or swollen gums after brushing or flossing.
• Persistent bad breath.
• Sensitive teeth or a “furry” feeling that returns quickly after brushing.

Professional solutions at Gloss & Floss

We tailor treatment based on stain type, tartar level and gum health:

• Air polishing (AirFlow): a gentle jet of air, water and powder lifts pigments and biofilm from enamel and hard-to-reach areas. Great before whitening. Learn about AirFlow.
• Scaling for tartar removal: ultrasonic and hand instruments remove calculus above and below the gumline to reduce inflammation and help prevent gum disease. If your gums are tender or bleed, see our inflamed gums treatment.
• Teeth whitening: after stains and tartar are cleared, whitening brightens the underlying tooth shade safely and predictably. Explore teeth whitening options.
• Home care plan: brush twice daily, floss or use interdental brushes, and schedule regular visits with our hygienist. See dental hygienist treatments.

Prevention tips that actually work

• Rinse with water after coffee, tea, or red wine; use a straw for dark drinks.
• Brush with fluoride toothpaste; clean between teeth daily.
• Choose a soft brush and gentle technique to protect the enamel.
• Book routine professional cleanings every 6–12 months.

When discoloration points to something more

Dark spots that don’t polish away, rapid colour changes, or stains around a cracked filling may indicate decay or enamel defects. Early evaluation prevents bigger problems. If tooth loss has already occurred, modern dental implants can restore both function and aesthetics.

Book an appointment

Ready for cleaner, brighter teeth? Our team will remove tartar, address discoloration of tooth, and create a personalised plan to keep your smile bright.

FAQ: Tooth discoloration & tartar removal

Can I remove tartar at home?

No. Plaque can be brushed away, but once it mineralises into tartar, it must be removed professionally with scaling. Home kits can scratch enamel and irritate gums.

Will whitening remove brown or yellow stains from tartar?

Whitening brightens natural enamel but does not remove calculus. We first clear biofilm and tartar (often with AirFlow and scaling), then whiten for the best, even result.

What’s the difference between plaque and tartar?

Plaque is a soft, sticky film of bacteria that you can brush off. Tartar (calculus) is plaque that has hardened; it bonds to teeth and needs professional removal.

How long does professional tartar removal take?

Most routine cleanings take 30–60 minutes. Heavy calculus or gum inflammation may need a longer visit or two sessions to stay gentle on the tissues.

Why do my teeth still look stained after cleaning?

Some intrinsic discolouration lies within the tooth rather than on the surface. After polishing and tartar removal, we can discuss in-clinic or at-home whitening to lift the internal shade.

Does tooth discoloration mean I have gum disease?

Not always. However, stains plus bleeding or swelling can signal gingivitis. If you notice these signs, see our inflamed gums treatment for evaluation.

What is the best treatment in Stockholm for fast stain removal?

For most surface stains, AirFlow followed by polishing delivers quick, comfortable results. When deeper colour change is the issue, we add professional whitening.