Many types of tooth discoloration require cosmetic dentistry treatment to effectively minimize stains and restore a more “pearly” aesthetic. Some of the most common causes of deeper staining and discoloration include highly-pigmented foods and drinks (i.e. coffee, berries, and wine), tobacco use, certain medications (ex: tetracycline), poor dental hygiene, the natural aging process, dental trauma or injury, and other factors.
In today’s blog, our experienced Salisbury dentists highlight effective cosmetic dentistry solutions that can improve the appearance of a single stained tooth, or multiple teeth, so you can be confident in your smile once again:
Professional Teeth Whitening
The use of professional-grade teeth whitening solutions, whether in-office or customized at-home treatments available at the dentist’s office, can often provide brilliant results. Teeth whitening can lighten the shade of teeth and give them a whiter, brighter look while reducing signs of mild stains.
Porcelain Veneers
Teeth affected by discoloration and dark, deep stains often make excellent candidates for veneers, which are thin porcelain shells color-matched to blend in seamlessly with natural teeth and placed only over the front and sides of the affected tooth. Porcelain veneers are created with high-quality materials and are capable of concealing dental imperfections for many years, and even decades, with proper care and attentive oral hygiene.
Dental Crowns
A custom-designed dental crown is designed to cover a tooth in all areas—top, back, front, and sides—frequently making it an ideal choice for concealing deep stains and discoloration affecting multiple visible areas of the tooth. Dental crowns should be made from high-quality, long-lasting dental materials, such as porcelain, and color-matched to the surrounding teeth so that results look and feel as natural as possible.
Cosmetic Dental Bonding
By using a tooth-colored composite resin material, cosmetic dental bonding can be applied to change the color of the tooth and mask stubborn staining or discoloration. Dental bonding is a beneficial option if you would like to see enhanced results that go beyond whitening but you may not be willing to alter any portion of your natural teeth, which is usually required for crowns and veneers. However, it is helpful to know that dental bonding may need a touch-up every three to ten years, whereas crowns and veneers often last much longer.
To learn more about how to improve the appearance of a discolored tooth, or to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced dentists, please contact us today.