As the name suggests, this type of cosmetic dental treatment is carried out to treat the following conditions to promote a bright white smile:
Stained Teeth
Brown Spots/Teeth Stains
Yellow Stains
Nicotine Stains
If you struggle with heavily discolored teeth, whitening and stain removal may be right for you.
What Causes Teeth Stains?
Teeth discoloration can be caused by a number of different things, including:
Tobacco Use
Coffee/Tea
Red Wine
Poor Dental Hygiene
Dark Colas
Prescription Medications
Age
Genetics
Chemotherapy
Blunt-Force Trauma
Different Types of Teeth Stains
There are three types of teeth stains:
This type of discoloration occurs on the surface of the tooth. Pigmented foods, drinks, or other substances build up on the tooth enamel and leave behind discoloration. Since the blemishes are superficial, extrinsic blemishes respond well to whitening toothpaste and professional whitening services.
Nitrous oxide sedation is ideal for anything from a dental cleaning or filling to an extraction. Although you’ll be fully conscious throughout the appointment, you simply won’t feel as concerned about what’s going on. We will still use local anesthetic to numb any teeth being treated. There are very few restrictions, such as severe nasal congestion and an allergic reaction to eggs.
This type of discoloration occurs below the surface of the tooth. While extrinsic blemishes are mostly cosmetic, intrinsic blemishes are internal and are usually caused by blunt-force trauma, prescription medications, or high concentrations of fluoride.
As we age, the outer layer of enamel thins, exposing the inner layer of dentin to both extrinsic and intrinsic discoloration. Because of this, our teeth tend to naturally darken and yellow over time.
The type of discoloration you have help determine the type of treatment you need. A thorough examination with your dentist can help.
Quick FAQ
Most people can benefit significantly from professional whitening treatment, though there are some cases that may differ. Instances in which a patient may not be a candidate for this type of dental treatment include:
- Pre-existing dental veneers, crowns, or bridges (they will not whiten or change shade)
- Nerve damage (tooth may appear gray in color)
- Active pregnancy
- Chronic tooth sensitivity
- Pre-existing periodontal (gum) disease
- Pre-existing oral cancer
If you are not sure if you are an ideal candidate, it’s best to undergo an examination and consultation with your dentist and dental hygienist.
After you undergo treatment, you will want to prolong your bright white smile and make it last for as long as possible. You can do this by:
- Brushing and flossing twice daily for two minutes
- Avoiding tobacco use
- Attending all regularly-scheduled dental cleaning and check-up appointments
- Using a straw when drinking dark beverages
- Avoiding foods, beverages, and substances that tend to discolor the smile
- Using a whitening toothpaste