Fix Stained Teeth
A variety of different things can cause stains on the teeth. Some of the common causes for stained teeth include consuming dark-pigmented food or beverages, taking certain medications, trauma to the teeth, a genetic predisposition, and the natural aging process. Based on the cause of the staining and severity, dentists are able to use a variety of different treatments to improve the appearance of your smile. If the color of your teeth bother you, below are popular methods used to safely remove stains on your teeth.
- Whitening Toothpaste: Nearly all types of toothpaste contains abrasive ingredients which are designed to aid in removing stains, special whitening toothpastes contain polishing agents or special chemicals which make them more effective. Through regular use of a whitening toothpaste, the product has the potential to lighten the teeth a few shades.
- Whitening Strips: The strips are applied on top of the teeth once or twice each day for around two weeks. These bleaching products, which contain peroxide, can help to improve the appearance of milder teeth stains. The whitening products are available over-the counter and typically come in the form of a strip or gel.
- At-home Bleaching: This solution is used to improve mild to moderate stains on the teeth. This whitening method uses a plastic tray which is filled with a bleaching paste or gel that contains a peroxide base. The tray secures the bleaching product to the teeth and it typically used daily for about a month. The trays are available over-the-counter and usually cost about $150 to $300 while offering patients good results in treating relatively mild tooth stains. They are not as powerful, however, as professional bleaching treatments. Custom trays to use at-home which can be obtained from you dentist are more effective than the whitening trays available to purchase over-the-counter. The customized trays fit your mouth more securely and also prevent the gel from leaking.
- Professional Bleaching: These treatments involve much stronger bleaching solutions compared to the gels and pastes which are used in the at-home kits. It is common for dental professionals to also use heat, light or a combination of both in order to expedite or intensify the whitening procedure. In many cases, the teeth can become three to eight shades brighter through this treatment option. Some dentists offer whitening techniques which use an ultraviolet light to rapidly enhance the effect of the whitening gel.
- Porcelain Veneers: When the tooth discoloration is severe or if it is due to genetics or aging, a more extensive treatment may be required. When the tooth discoloration is not responsive to the traditional teeth-whitening methods, dentists often recommend porcelain veneers. The veneers are bonded to the tooth’s surface and is a thin sheet of porcelain or tooth-colored resin. The solution provides patients with a whiter smile which looks completely natural. Veneers are also a good option when the tooth discoloration is caused by tetracycline, fluorosis or trauma.
While some patients want to pursue natural teeth whitening solutions, these options are not typically effective and in some cases can cause damage to the teeth. Follow up with your dentist to discuss which whitening options are safe and most effective for your teeth.
Fix Oral Health Issues : Fix Canker Sores
