A brighter smile can provide a confidence boost, especially when meeting someone new. However, over time a number of factors can discolor our teeth. Instead of avoiding smiling, talk to your dentist about a possible solution. Professional cosmetic treatment can erase teeth stains and help you enjoy a brighter smile. Do you have questions about teeth whitening?
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Question: What causes teeth stains?
Answer: Teeth stains occur due to a number of factors. Surface stains, also known as extrinsic discoloration, can be the result of age, smoking, foods high in sugar, and drinks that contain dark pigments. Intrinsic stains, which form beneath the enamel, can be the result of fluorosis, injury, or certain medications, including tetracycline.
Question: How does professional whitening work?
Answer: For extrinsic and minor intrinsic stains we may recommend professional treatment. We will take impressions of your teeth to create a set of plastic trays. The patient fills the trays with a bleaching gel and wears them each day for the specified amount of time. Total treatment takes between one and two weeks.
Question: How do I prevent further teeth stains?
Answer: With routine maintenance you can reduce the severity of teeth stains. We recommend brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing before bed each night. In addition, a dental cleaning once every six months can help your smile stay brighter for longer.
Question: What if my discoloration doesn’t respond to traditional whitening techniques?
Answer: For severe intrinsic stains we may suggest masking them with porcelain veneers. The veneers are made from porcelain, which look vey similar to tooth enamel and cover the teeth, hiding discoloration and blending with your smile. If you have any questions about teeth whitening or porcelain veneers then talk to our office today.