With cosmetic dentistry our team strives to correct esthetic problems that hurt the appearance of your smile. One of the more common complaints is discoloration of the teeth. We actually have multiple options for erasing or simply masking teeth stains. Do you need teeth whitening or veneers?
Professional Teeth Whitening
What’s the different between extrinsic and intrinsic teeth stains? Extrinsic stains are a form of surface discoloration. These are often the result of:
- Smoking
- Drinks with dark pigments (coffee, soda, red wine, tea)
- Foods high in sugar and other starches
- Plaque buildup
For these stains we typically recommend professional teeth whitening. The patient obtains a set of trays custom-made for your smile. Each day you will fill the trays with a bleaching gel and wear them while you sleep or during the day for a specific amount of time. Removing stains may take between one and two weeks.
Porcelain Veneers
Intrinsic discoloration actually occurs below the surface of the stains. They are caused by different factors, including trauma to the tooth, fluorosis, or the use of tetracycline at a young age. While teeth whitening can often remove minor intrinsic stains, more severe discoloration may need to be masked with a restoration. Porcelain veneers look natural and fit over the front of the tooth. They cover up stains and can reshape the tooth, making your smile more cosmetically appealing.
My Teeth Stains Have Been Erased/Masked, What Now?
Now you need to maintain a healthy smile to help your bright new smile stay that way for longer periods of time. You should see the dentist twice a year for a checkup and cleaning. A cleaning can help your natural teeth stay bright and a checkup can allow the doctor to monitor your veneers. At home, you need to brush and floss everyday without exception. You can also cut back on drinks/food with high amounts of sugar or dark pigments.
ABOUT YOUR ASTORIA, NY, DENTIST:
Jeffrey Leibowitz, DDS, a native New Yorker, has welcomed patients and families from in and around Astoria, NY (including Queens, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and all surrounding communities) since opening his dental practice in 1991. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Leibowitz, call our office in Astoria today at 718-728-8320.
