By Dr. med. dent. Dana Marinescu, dentist with a focus on aesthetic dentistry and modern technologies
Even though we brush our teeth daily, many people over the age of 30 experience tooth discoloration at some point. This is completely normal—but by no means inevitable. Many adults come to my practice in Zurich with the question: "What can I do about my yellow teeth?" The good news: Tooth discoloration can be removed effectively and gently. In this article, I share my experience, modern treatments, and helpful everyday tips with you—without any jargon.
Why does tooth discoloration occur – especially in adults?
External vs. internal discoloration
First, an important distinction:
- External discoloration deposit on the tooth surface. Coffee, tea, red wine, or nicotine are often to blame.
- Internal discoloration They are caused by aging, medication, or previous injury. They affect the tooth structure itself and are more difficult to remove.
Typical causes from 30
Many of my patients tell me that their teeth used to be whiter—and that's usually true. With age, tooth enamel thins, and the yellowish dentin underneath becomes more visible. Additionally, more pigment accumulates on the tooth surface over the years.
For example, a 41-year-old architect recently came to see me and said, "I hardly drink any coffee, but my teeth are darker than they used to be!" After a thorough examination, it turned out that she had primarily developed age-related discoloration—not an isolated case.
Tooth discoloration removal: Your best options in Zurich
Professional tooth cleaning (PZR)
The simplest and most effective method for external discoloration. It removes deposits and pigments using ultrasound and airflow.
Ideal for: Coffee, tea or smoke stains
Duration: approx. 45–60 minutes
Cost: CHF 120–180
Recommendation: every 6 months, or more often if there is a tendency to discoloration
Many people are surprised by how much whiter their teeth appear after a professional cleaning. I remember a 38-year-old lawyer who said after his first professional cleaning, "I should have done this years ago—it looks like bleached teeth!"
In-office bleaching – directly in the dentist’s office
During in-office bleaching, we whiten your teeth with a highly effective gel that is applied under controlled conditions and, if necessary, activated with light. Your gums are protected beforehand.
Ideal for: generalized discoloration, e.g. due to tea, medication, age
Advantages:
- Visible effect in 1–2 hours
- Medically monitored and safe
- Also possible for sensitive teeth
Cost: CHF 400–800 (depending on method and effort)
Many of my patients combine their whitening with a career change or a special occasion. One entrepreneur recently said, "The new smile was the start of a new chapter for me."
Home bleaching with individual tray
For those who prefer to take it slow or are sensitive to heat and light: With individually fitted trays and a mild gel, you can whiten your teeth at home – under our guidance.
Duration: 1–2 weeks, depending on the desired effect
Advantage: gentle, easy to control, cost-effective
Cost: CHF 300–600 including splint and gel
I like to give my patients a digital color sample so they can see their progress for themselves – it's incredibly motivating!
Internal bleaching – for individual tooth discoloration
If only one tooth is discolored, for example, after an accident or root canal treatment, we use internal bleaching. The bleaching agent is injected directly into the tooth.
Particularly suitable for:
- “gray” or dark individual teeth
- old, dead teeth
Cost: CHF 250–400 per tooth
I remember a musician who had concealed a darkly discolored front tooth for years. After the internal bleaching, he said, "Finally, I no longer automatically look away when I smile."
Veneers – for lasting perfection
If the tooth discoloration is very severe or combined with other aesthetic problems (e.g. small gaps or unevenness), Veneers could be the solution. These involve wafer-thin ceramic veneers.
Advantages:
- Perfect white as desired
- Shape and color correction simultaneously
- Long-lasting and absolutely natural looking
Cost: CHF 1,000–2,000 per tooth
The process: This is how aesthetic teeth whitening works
1. Initial consultation
We analyze your tooth color with a digital colorimeter and discuss your goals. Together, we'll find the right method.
2. Diagnostics
If necessary, we can take digital x-rays or photographs for documentation. Important: Any caries or gingivitis must be treated beforehand.
3. Implementation
Depending on the method chosen – cleaning, in-office or home bleaching – the treatment is carried out in the practice or with instructions for home use.
4. Aftercare
- Sensitivity protection (e.g. with fluoride gel)
- Information on care and enamel protection
- Check-up appointment if required
What does the health insurance company pay?
Bleaching is considered an aesthetic treatment in Switzerland – and is covered by basic insurance not adoptedHowever, internal bleaching of non-vital teeth may be considered medically necessary depending on the case.
Please feel free to check with your supplemental insurance provider in advance. We can provide you with a medical assessment upon request.
What you can do yourself – tips against new tooth discoloration
Immediately after bleaching:
- Avoid coffee, tea, red wine and colored foods for 48 hours
- Do not use staining toothpastes or mouthwashes
Long term:
- Drinking water after coffee or red wine
- Clean between teeth with brushes
- Go for professional teeth cleaning 2–4 times a year
Which toothpastes really work?
Avoid aggressive whitening products with coarse abrasive particles. Better yet, choose toothpastes with a mild polishing effect and fluoride—we're happy to advise you individually.
Why Tooth discoloration be treated in Zurich?
Zurich offers a variety of specialized practices with state-of-the-art equipment. In my practice, we focus on:
- Digital color analysis
- Minimally invasive bleaching methods
- Personal support (no mass processing)
- Timely appointments, even for working people
I received particularly positive feedback from a 36-year-old HR manager: "I conducted my first job interview after the treatment with a completely different level of self-confidence."
Conclusion: Removing tooth discoloration is worthwhile – even from 30
Tooth discoloration isn't just an aesthetic problem—it affects how we speak, laugh, and are perceived. The good news: There are now many safe and effective ways to restore your natural or desired whiteness.
Whether you are looking for quick whitening or a long-term solution, schedule an appointment today. consultation and take the first step! 😊
