Stain Removal · Makati
Removal of extrinsic surface staining from coffee, tea, tobacco, and dietary pigments — using polishing. A targeted treatment for surface deposits, distinct from teeth whitening, which addresses the intrinsic colour of enamel.
Book an AppointmentAt a glance
Tooth discolouration has two distinct origins. Extrinsic stain sits on the outer surface of enamel — pigment molecules from coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and certain foods that adhere to the enamel pellicle over time. This type of staining responds to polishing, which lifts the pigment deposits off the surface without altering the tooth structure.
Intrinsic colour is the actual shade of the dentine beneath the enamel — determined by genetics, age, and any medication or developmental history that affected enamel formation. This does not respond to surface polishing. Changing intrinsic shade requires teeth whitening with a peroxide-based agent, which works through the enamel to alter the dentine colour.
Stain removal at DevelopDent addresses extrinsic deposits. If a patient also wants a lighter intrinsic shade, the treating dentist will discuss whether whitening is appropriate and in what sequence — but these are separate considerations addressed by separate procedures.
| Feature | Stain Removal | Teeth Whitening |
|---|---|---|
| What it targets | Extrinsic surface deposits (pigment on enamel) | Intrinsic colour of dentine beneath enamel |
| How it works | Polishing removes surface pigment | Peroxide agent diffuses through enamel to alter dentine shade |
| Result | Cleaner-looking surface; returns teeth to their natural colour | Lighter shade — teeth appear whiter than natural baseline |
| Suitable for | Surface staining from diet, tobacco, or deposits | Patients seeking a lighter shade with adequate enamel and gum health |
Does stain removal hurt?
For most patients, stain removal is comfortable — it involves mild abrasive pressure from the polishing cup. Patients with sensitivity on certain surfaces may find those areas momentarily sharp. The treating dentist will adjust technique and pressure where needed. No anaesthesia is required.
How long does the result last?
Surface stain accumulates again with continued dietary exposure. Patients who drink coffee and tea daily will typically notice some staining within a few months. The rate of re-staining varies by individual habits, saliva composition, and oral hygiene. Reducing staining agent contact and brushing promptly after coloured drinks slows re-accumulation.
Should I have stain removal before teeth whitening?
Generally yes. Removing surface stain before whitening gives a cleaner baseline — allowing the whitening agent to work on the enamel surface directly rather than through pigmented deposits. It also allows the patient to see their natural tooth colour clearly, which helps set realistic expectations for the whitening outcome. The treating dentist will advise the appropriate sequence.
How much does stain removal cost in Makati?
Pricing depends on the extent of staining and whether stain removal is performed as part of a professional cleaning appointment or as a standalone procedure. Fee information is provided at consultation.
Stain removal fees depend on the extent and nature of the staining — a light surface stain from coffee or tea is a simpler procedure than heavy tobacco or pigmented-food staining built up over years. Where stain removal is performed alongside a routine cleaning, both procedures are priced separately and the fees are confirmed before treatment begins.
DevelopDent is located on the ground floor of Legaspi Tower 200 on Paseo de Roxas — a short walk from Greenbelt and accessible from across Makati CBD, Salcedo Village, and BGC.
Directions and getting here →1st Floor, Legaspi Tower 200
107 Paseo de Roxas Street
Legazpi Village, Makati, 1229
Legazpi Village · near Greenbelt
Ayala Triangle · Salcedo Village
Whether you want surface staining addressed as part of a cleaning appointment or as a standalone procedure before considering whitening — book a consultation at DevelopDent to discuss what is appropriate for your case.
