Deep Or Stubborn Smile Stains: What To Do?
You hear about teeth whitening all the time, so when you experience some serious discoloration, you figure you’ll just have to waltz yourself merrily into our Saxonburg, PA practice, letting us know it is time for a session! However, what you will likely discover is that when your stains are quite deep or stubborn, you may not make such a fantastic candidate for traditional whitening! Why, you ask, in shock? Now what? While you may have to accept that the details aren’t what you were expecting, you will be so happy to discover that we can absolutely guide you toward a dazzling smile!
Isn’t A Stain Just A Stain?
Not exactly! You may figure that all types of discoloration are identical and that, as a result, you probably just need strong teeth whitening. However, this isn’t exactly how things work. Really, there are extrinsic and then intrinsic stains. The extrinsic are those that exist within your outer tissue layer, essential causing stains within the surface of your tooth. They may be minor or severe. Then, there are intrinsic stains, which occur within the deeper tissue layer of your teeth, making them more difficult to reach.
Why Whitening Isn’t Right For You
We understand that at first glance, it seems like teeth whitening can fix just about any type of discoloration. However, it is primarily used for the extrinsic staining we mentioned. This is because of the way whitening works. Did you know that your teeth are porous? As a result, the bleaching agent we use will penetrate your enamel and work within your tissue to break apart the stains that are there. Then, those stains will lift, revealing a whiter smile. Unfortunately, if your stains are quite deep (or they are very stubborn and even bleaching reveals a less discolored but still dim or yellowed smile), then you will not have the white smile you want. The result? Whitening isn’t for you … but another cosmetic treatment is!
Now What?
It all depends on your specific needs. If you have a small area of staining that’s serious and requires care, we will camouflage it with the help of dental bonding. For all over whitening needs, we may suggest porcelain veneers. They are little, very thin casings made from porcelain that we will customize in color and shape. We bond them to your teeth, providing the visible portions with beautiful, lifelike camouflaging for a white smile!
Whiten Your Smile With Our Cosmetic Dental Care
Come in to talk with our dental team during a consultation, so you can learn all about the many ways we can approach your smile stains. We may then create a care plan that will help you achieve a glowing grin! Receive comprehensive, comfortable personalized dental care in Saxonburg, PA by contacting Saxonburg Dental Care today at (724) 352-4440.
