You may notice your smile becoming dull over time and developing unsightly yellow stains. Teeth stains can make a person feel self-conscious about the appearance of his/her smile. Why do we develop teeth stains? What can we do to brighten our smile? With cosmetic dentistry, your Milford dentist can offer an array of teeth whitening options for improved smile esthetics.
What Causes Teeth Stains?
The first step towards a brighter smile involves a consultation with your Milford dentist. To decide which whitening technique will best address your discoloration, we will diagnose the cause and severity of your discoloration. Did you know there are essentially two types of teeth stains? The most common occurs on the surface of the teeth. Extrinsic teeth stains form as a result of the foods and drinks we consume. Smoking and tobacco use also causes embarrassing extrinsic stains. Intrinsic stains form below the surface and are often caused by either trauma or the use of certain medications, such as tetracycline.
Teeth Whitening Options
For extrinsic stains, your Milford dentist may recommend either our in-office or at-home teeth whitening option. Our in-office procedure brightens smiles in about an hour. After placing a protective covering on your teeth and lips, a powerful bleaching solution will be applied to the teeth. Using a special light, our dental team will activate the bleaching ingredients.
For at-home teeth whitening, our doctors will take impressions of your teeth to create a custom-made whitening tray. We will then prescribe a bleaching gel. Each day you will wear the gel-filled tray for about one or two hours. In about two weeks, you can develop a noticeably brighter smile. Many patients prefer home-based whitening because this procedure offers both a reduction in tooth sensitivity and the convenience of home.
If you have intrinsic stains, you may need more than at-home or in-office teeth whitening. Porcelain veneers and esthetic bonding allow our dentists to mask the appearance of permanent discoloration. If you have any questions about our cosmetic treatments, then contact Sensitive Care Cosmetic and Family Dentistry today.
Keeping Your Smile Bright
After undergoing a teeth whitening procedure, you may need to cut back on drinks that contain dark pigments for a few days, including tea, soda, coffee, and red wine. To help your smile stay bright, you should always practice good dental habits, including regular brushing and flossing. Routine dental cleanings allow our hygienists to remove plaque and reduce the appearance of future discoloration.
If you wish you could change the size, shape, color, or alignment of one or more of your teeth to improve your smile’s appearance, and your confidence, then schedule an appointment by calling our office at (203) 878-6699. The specialists at Sensitive Care Cosmetic & Family Dentistry proudly serve patients and their families in Milford, Stratford, West Haven, New Haven, and all surrounding communities.