Cosmetic Dentistry for Discolored Teeth: What Are Your Options?
The smile is one of a person’s most noticeable facial features. Unfortunately, many people suffer from cosmetic imperfections that leave them feeling self-conscious about their smile. One of the most common aesthetic flaws to impact the smile is tooth discoloration. Discolored teeth can leave the smile looking dull and unhealthy.
At the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, our team of dentists offer a number of cosmetic dentistry services to enhance the appearance of the smile, including cosmetic dentistry treatments for discolored teeth. We are happy to meet with individuals from the Troy, MI, Birmingham, MI, and Bloomfield, MI, area, and customize a treatment plan that will give them the brighter, whiter smile they desire.
Teeth Whitening
One of the fastest, easiest, and most affordable ways to treat discolored teeth is with professional teeth whitening. Teeth whitening treats discoloration related to extrinsic dental stains, or those that affect a tooth’s outer layer of enamel. Some types of discoloration that respond well to professional teeth whitening include those caused by coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco products.
At our dental practice, we offer Opalescence® BOOST™ in-office teeth whitening. During treatment, a hydrogen peroxide-based whitening formula is applied to the teeth. The whitening gel is chemically activated to lift away stains and brighten tooth color. This procedure takes about an hour and leaves teeth up to eight shades whiter.
Veneers
Veneers are another good option for tooth discoloration. Veneers are thin porcelain shells that bond to the facial surface of the teeth to create a whiter and more attractive smile. Veneers are usually placed over the span of two dental appointments. They require minor alterations to the natural teeth and are considered an irreversible treatment.
Although veneers are more costly and more invasive than teeth whitening, they are also more versatile than teeth whitening. Veneers are able to address intrinsic discoloration, which exists on a tooth’s inner layer of dentin. Veneers can treat discoloration caused by the use of certain medications, over-exposure to fluoride, or an oral injury. Because veneers completely conceal the natural teeth, they are also able to hide additional cosmetic flaws, such as chips, cracks, fractures, and minor misalignment problems.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are generally considered a restorative dentistry treatment, but they can greatly enhance the appearance of a tooth. A dental crown may be recommended to treat discoloration if just a single tooth has been impacted. Usually, this type of discoloration is caused by an oral injury. If the roots of a tooth are damaged, they can essentially die off, leaving the crown of the tooth looking dark gray in appearance. During dental crown treatment, a damaged or discolored tooth is reshaped so that a porcelain crown can be placed. The crown completely surrounds the tooth to enhance its color and appearance, and provide an added layer of strength and protection.
Contact Us
If dental stains or discoloration are preventing you from enjoying the true beauty of your smile, cosmetic dentistry treatment can help. To learn more about the cosmetic dentistry services offered at the Cosmetic Dentistry Institute, send us a message online or call (248) 519-1919 at your earliest convenience.