How do you feel about your smile’s brightness? If you wish your teeth could be whiter then you may benefit from cosmetic dentistry. We offer a number of professional teeth whitening options as part of our approach to cosmetic dentistry. We can also offer tips for reducing the severity of future teeth stains. If you would like to achieve a brighter smile, then contact our office today.
Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Teeth Stains
There are actually two different types of teeth stains. The most common forms on the surface of the teeth and is known as an extrinsic stain. These are caused by smoking, sugary foods and drinks, and drinks with dark pigments. The second type is referred to as intrinsic and forms below the tooth enamel, often the result of injury, fluorosis, or tetracycline use. The treatment we recommend will depend on which type of discoloration you have.
In-Office Whitening
We can use our office-based treatment to remove most extrinsic stains. The doctor places a protective barrier on the gums and lips before placing a powerful bleaching gel onto the teeth. The gel is then activated with a special light. In about one to two hours, the discoloration is removed from the teeth. We may recommend this option for people who are prone to tooth sensitivity.
At-Home Whitening
Our home-based option can remove extrinsic teeth stains and sometimes minor intrinsic ones. We will take impressions of your teeth to create a set of plastic trays. You will then receive a powerful bleaching gel. Each day, you will fill the trays with gel and wear them for the amount of time the doctor recommends. Total treatment takes about a week to ten days, depending on the severity of your discoloration. If you have any questions about brightening smiles, then please contact our office today.
