Dental Discoloration: How Your Dentist Can Brighten Your Grin

Did you know that according to a study presented by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, nearly half (48%) of adults believe your smile is your most memorable feature? It’s one of the first things many people notice about you, and a bright, confident grin can leave a lasting impression. Unfortunately, unsightly stains can leave you feeling self-conscious about your appearance and how others might perceive you.

If you have tried over-the-counter whitening products without success, you’re not alone. Many people struggle to get the desired results, either due to the product they’re using or because their discoloration exists below the surface. There are several types of stains, and not all of them can be bleached. Continue reading to learn more about the different kinds and how your dentist can lighten your teeth!

Stain #1: Extrinsic

When you think about discolored teeth, this is probably the type of stain that comes to mind. It happens when you consume pigmented foods and beverages that contain ingredients that can stick to any plaque or residue buildup. This can tint your enamel so that it loses its pearly white hue. It’s also incredibly common for smokers to have darkened teeth because cigarettes contain nicotine that gets trapped in the pores and turns yellow when exposed to oxygen.

Thankfully, your dentist can address these issues relatively easily. They have access to professional-grade gels that get better results without causing any tooth sensitivity. In a single appointment, they can brighten your grin by several shades. Many providers also offer take-home kits using the same top-quality ingredients along with customized trays for optimal results.

Stain #2: Intrinsic

If you’ve tried whitening pastes and kits that have no noticeable impact on your discoloration, you could be dealing with an intrinsic stain. These exist below the surface of your teeth, so topical treatments are often ineffective. They can be caused by genetics, certain prescription medications, and over-exposure to fluoride as a child when your pearly whites were still developing.

Your dentist can mask these blemishes with porcelain veneers or dental bonding. Veneers are thin, ceramic shells that are bonded to the front surface of your teeth to hide imperfections. Dental bonding, meanwhile, consists of applying tooth-colored resin over your tooth, shaping it, and then hardening it in place with a special curing light. Both options can give you the sparkling smile you deserve.

Stain #3: Age-Related

There’s a common misperception that healthy teeth ought to be pure white and anything that’s an ivory shade or darker means they’re stained. The truth is that even the healthiest grins are off-white in their most natural state. The outermost layer of enamel has a bluish-white hue, but the dentin beneath it is more yellow. As you age, your enamel naturally thins after years of daily use. That means your teeth will gradually appear darker as more of the dentin shines through.

Your dentist can also address this type of discoloration with solutions that cover the problem because bleaching won’t do any good. Whether you prefer veneers or dental bonding, you’ll soon have a much younger-looking grin to show for it.

If you’re not sure the reason your teeth are stained but are tired of living with imperfections, contact your dentist today for a cosmetic consultation!

About the Practice

At Laura Philipps, DMD, two skilled dentists work together to help you build a happy, healthy smile that you can be proud of. They offer a full array of services under one roof, including cosmetic dentistry. They understand that problems with your teeth can impact your overall well-being, and so they take the time to get to know you so they can offer fully individualized solutions. Plus, with state-of-the-art equipment, they can help you feel comfortable while increasing treatment accuracy. If you’re tired of tinted teeth and want a cosmetic consultation, you can request an appointment on the website or by calling (432) 570-4433.