One of the first things that people notice about you is the condition of your smile, but if you have stained teeth, you’re not likely to make a good first impression. In fact, the discoloration can leave you feeling so self-conscious that you try not to speak or smile too often or avoid social interactions.
You may have tried plenty of over-the-counter products like whitening pastes, gels, or kits only to end up frustrated that you couldn’t achieve the desired results. While these products can help in some circumstances, they can’t remove all types of stains. Continue reading to learn more about why and how your dentist can help whiten your teeth!
What Are the Types of Tooth Stains?
If you have stubborn blemishes that don’t seem to disappear no matter what you try, you may need professional help to enhance your appearance. There are different types of stains, and not all of them can be whitened away.
The two different kinds are:
- Extrinsic stains. This discoloration exists on the outside surface of your tooth. It’s typically due to consuming darker foods and drinks that have ingredients that stick to your enamel. Some common culprits include coffee, tea, red wine, and different types of berries.
- Intrinsic stains. These occur below the surface of your tooth and can be due to exposure to too much fluoride as a child, genetics, and some prescription medications.
Extrinsic stains can typically be treated with high-quality whitening services provided by your dentist. Commercially available products that you can find at grocery stores and pharmacies often have abrasive bleaching agents that wear down your enamel or cause sensitivity. Plus, you might be dealing with intrinsic discoloration that can’t be addressed the same way.
How Can My Dentist Lighten My Teeth?
Your dentist can recommend several potential methods to brighten your grin. The whitening services they offer are best for addressing discoloration caused by years of consuming darker ingredients. A single in-office visit can lighten your teeth by several shades, for example. If you don’t have the time, many providers also make take-home kits using the same professional-grade gels along with customized trays so that you can get the same results from the comfort of your own home.
Some stains, however, cannot be addressed with teeth whitening because they extend beyond the outermost enamel. In these instances, your dentist can use cosmetic services like veneers or dental bonding to mask aesthetic flaws to give you a more evenly colored smile. They use durable materials that can be customized to match the shade of your natural teeth, so no one can tell the difference.
With the many solutions available to them, your dentist is the ideal place to start if you’re hoping for a brighter smile!
About the Practice
At Central Dental Associates, you and your family benefit from a team of dentists who offer a full array of services under one roof. With decades of combined experience, they provide everything from basic preventative care to more complex treatments. They offer many methods of improving your appearance if you’re unhappy with your grin, including whitening services. They can lighten your teeth in the office or send you home with all the tools you’ll need to get the beautiful smile you deserve. You’re welcome to request an appointment on the website or by calling (781) 769-3566.