Discoloration is a common problem often treated by a cosmetic dentist. In fact, teeth whitening treatment is the most common treatment sought by patients. When teeth whitening doesn’t correct the issue, though, you and your cosmetic dentist might consider using veneers.
Discoloration and Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a simple, non-invasive procedure that can correct a range of staining issues, but it is best at treating extrinsic staining—that is, staining that affects only the surface of the teeth. Intrinsic staining, which affects deeper layers of the tooth, does not respond well to traditional whiteners.
Some causes of intrinsic staining include:
- Exposure to certain medications, particularly antibiotics, while the teeth are developing
- Exposure to excessive amounts of fluoride while the teeth are developing
- Damage to the tooth’s interior
- Congenital issues with the enamel
- Wear that has damaged the enamel, leaving the underlying dentin exposed
In addition, some external staining can be so severe that even repeated bleaching treatments do not bring about the desired results. In these cases, veneers can restore the proper whiteness to the teeth and can also help strengthen the tooth.
How Veneers Work
Veneers are typically made of porcelain. They are very thin—often no thicker than a fingernail—and are affixed to the tooth’s surface. Although they are delicate on their own, they provide a strong, durable surface when they’re set permanently into place. Porcelain is semi-translucent, so it allows some light to penetrate, just like your natural enamel. For this reason, porcelain veneers are much more natural-looking than solid porcelain crowns or prosthetic teeth made of tooth-colored resins, which tend to have an opaque, “plastic” appearance.
Typically, veneers are placed in two stages. First, your dentist prepares your teeth and places temporary veneers. The permanent veneers are manufactured off-site and are custom-made and color matched to provide you with your perfect smile. When they’re complete, your dentist will remove your temporary veneers and apply the new, permanent ones. The procedure is simply and relatively non-invasive. In a matter of days, you’ll have the bright, white smile you’ve always wanted.
Are you ready for a better smile? Contact us today!