Don't let tooth discoloration keep you from sharing your smile. Teeth whitening treatments can lift years of dental stains and discoloration to reveal a bright white smile. For some with deep, stubborn stains, professional teeth whitening gels may not be able to produce the desired results. Fortunately, there are a variety of treatments, in addition to teeth whitening gels, to treat even the toughest discoloration. To find out which tooth discoloration treatment is right for you, we invite you to schedule a consultation with Worcester cosmetic dentist Christy Savas.

What Are the Different Types of Tooth Discoloration?

Tooth discoloration is nearly inescapable. Tooth discoloration is a natural part of the aging process, specifically caused by the foods and drinks we consume. Certain habits like smoking and not practicing proper oral hygiene can also contribute to dental discoloration. Effectively treating dental stains begins with determining the type of stains affecting the teeth. Dental discoloration can be broken up into two categories, extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains.

• Extrinsic stains: Extrinsic stains are more common and can be thought of as surface stains. Extrinsic stains are noticeable for their overall discoloration of the teeth. In some people with extrinsic stains, the discoloration may be darker along the gum line. Foods, drinks, and cigarette smoking can increase the development of extrinsic stains. Red wine, coffee, and tobacco use are three of the biggest dental staining culprits.
• Intrinsic stains: Intrinsic stains are deeper then extrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains are characterized by isolated discoloration. This often results in discolored spots within an individual tooth instead of an overall discoloration. Intrinsic stains are more difficult to treat than extrinsic because the discoloration of intrinsic stains has penetrated to the inner dentin layer of the teeth. Intrinsic stains are caused by such conditions as enamel erosion, disease, trauma, medication, or poor oral hygiene.

Treatments for Dental Discoloration  

Dental discoloration is treatable regardless of the type of discoloration affecting the teeth. Extrinsic stains often respond well to professional teeth whitening treatments whereas intrinsic stains are often best treated with porcelain veneers or dental bonding.

• Zoom!® teeth whitening: Zoom!® teeth whitening can lift years of built up stains in as little as one 45-minute treatment.
• Porcelain veneers: Porcelain veneers are a great whitening option for patients who are unable to achieve their desired whitening results with professional teeth whitening. This may include those with spotty intrinsic stains or those with extreme extrinsic stains.
• Dental bonding: Dental bonding can improve the whiteness of deeply stained teeth in a similar manner as porcelain veneers. This is often a suitable option for those who would not benefit from professional teeth whitening.

Though there are treatments to restore the whiteness of any smile, it is best to take steps to reduce discoloration, especially after whitening treatment. Some steps you can take include:

• Practice proper oral hygiene
• Avoid foods and drinks, like coffee and red wine, which are known for staining the teeth
• Don't use tobacco
• Rinse your mouth with water after eating and in between brushing

Schedule a Consultation

Find out which treatment is right for you. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Savas today!