Why do my teeth become discolored? Tooth discoloration is a normal part of aging. As people age, enamel wears down, and teeth take on a duller appearance.
Teeth can also become discolored from smoking and heavy consumption of coffee or tea. Other causes of tooth discoloration include side effects of medications (specifically certain antibiotics) used during the developmental phase of the teeth, an individual's genetic makeup, and excessive fluoride consumption (fluorosis, seen in both children and adults).
Teeth whitening and veneers offer a cosmetic dentistry solution for people with discolored or dull-looking teeth.
What are the side effects to teeth whitening?
Dentists take protective measures to prevent discomfort during teeth whitening procedures.
Typically, a protective gel or rubber shield is used to prevent bleaching agents from damaging gum tissue.
The most common bleaching agents used by dentists are approved for use by the American Dental Association, ensuring safety and effectiveness.
After the whitening procedure, you may experience minimal tooth sensitivity for a short period of time
Does teeth whitening work for everyone?
In cases involving severe discoloration, teeth whitening may not result in a bright, white smile. Individuals with severe tooth discoloration should consider other options, such as porcelain veneers or composite bonding.
Are there special considerations for dental veneers?
The factors to consider when evaluating a veneer procedure from an aesthetic point of view include:
Your goals - what you want your mouth to look/feel like.
The color of your teeth. For example, most veneers are ultra-thin and therefore translucent, so discolored teeth underneath may show through.
Your dentist may recommend teeth whitening first to reduce discoloration. Veneers are fabricated to have a natural tooth-like appearance.
Veneer color must match that of any remaining teeth, and texturing may be applied to veneer surfaces for a natural look.
The impact of your lifestyle and habits. For example, teeth grinding and clenching may make the veneer more susceptible to chips, cracks, and breaking.
You should also consider the artistry of the dentist who designs the specifications and ultimately places the veneers. Veneer materials are universal, but the artistic skill of the dentist, as well as that of the lab technician who crafts the veneers, plays a major role in the esthetic appeal of the final product.
Are veneers my only option if I want a smile makeover?
Your cosmetic dentist will determine the cosmetic dentistry procedures that would be the best for you.
The dentist's suggestions will be based on your desires and a thorough examination to determine the condition of your teeth and what problems, if any, may require dental treatment.
Therefore, your smile makeover could involve teeth whitening, crowns, composite bonding, gingival sculpting, inlays and onlays or any other combination of cosmetic dental procedures that your dentist determines is right for your cosmetic treatment plan.
How do I know whether a cosmetic dentist is good or not?
One of the first questions you should ask is what type of training he or she has for the particular procedures you're interested in. Not all dentists know and perform all cosmetic dentistry procedures.
Some cosmetic dentists even have portfolios for you to look at. These include before and after pictures of their work.
As such, cosmetic dentists often involve other specialists (orthodontist, endodontist, lab techs, etc.) in treatment planning and execution. It is important to know exactly who will be involved in your treatment and what they will be doing.
You should also ask to see before-and-after photos of patients who underwent those procedures. Ask questions about their cases and the strategies the dentist used to improve their smiles.
Additionally, ask if the dentist is an accredited member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (AACD). Accredited members undergo extensive continuing education and rigorous testing to ensure that their skills using composite bonding, porcelain veneers and other cosmetic restorations and procedures are exemplary and worthy of accreditation status.
Author Resource:-
Jack R. Landry is a former dental assistant and has authored hundreds of articles relating to oral health and Bakersfield, CA dentist. He has been a guest dental lecturer for over 15 years.
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