Discolored teeth are a problem that almost everyone will face at some point in their lives. There are many reasons why your teeth may become something other than the shade of white you desire.
Dr. Durning Moore can help establish how severe your discolored teeth are in his Charlotte, NC dentist office. The severity of the staining, as well as what’s causing it can help determine the best course of action for treatment.
What Causes Discolored Teeth?
As we get older, our teeth naturally start to discolor. The enamel grows thinner over time, exposing more of the yellowish dentin layer underneath. Age also means that more stains and other issues can develop more and more over time. Certain medications can cause deep staining of various colors on your teeth.
Lifestyle habits make a big difference too, especially if they’re consistent habits over years of your life. Tobacco and drinks like coffee or tea cause staining on your teeth as well. The longer you consume these things, the more staining you’ll have.
Treating Discolored Teeth In Charlotte, North Carolina
At your cosmetic consultation, Dr. Moore will do a full examination of your mouth. He’ll also talk to you about your budget and goals for your smile. All of these things will determine his recommendation for your treatment. Each patient gets a personalized treatment plan that’s specific to their case.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is safer and more effective than over-the-counter options. We offer both in-office and take-home teeth whitening solutions. In the office, we whiten your teeth in a 90-minute session. This is ideal if you need whitening quickly, like for an event. It’s monitored by a dental professional, eliminating sensitivity to the soft tissue. You’ll get teeth up to eight shades whiter in one appointment.
At-home teeth whitening is convenient but is a more gradual process. Dr. Moore will take molds of your teeth to make custom whitening trays to perfectly fit your mouth. Professional-grade bleaching gel is placed in them and they’re worn either overnight or for a few hours each way. Results from this will show in about two weeks of consistent use.
Porcelain Veneers
Particularly with staining from medications, traditional teeth whitening methods may not take care of some types of stains. Porcelain veneers can offer a solution. They’re thin shells of dental ceramic that cover the front and sides of your teeth. They can be color-matched to the shade of white you desire. Veneers are considered a permanent restoration and can last for decades.
Tooth Bonding
Tooth bonding is a more economic solution that can handle harsh stains. A composite resin is made that’s color-matched to the shade you want. It’s malleable so it can be molded into the shape of your tooth. It’s hardened with a special light and polished so it matches the natural sheen of teeth. This is a temporary restoration that lasts anywhere from 3-10 years, depending on how well it’s taken care of.
Whiten Your Smile
With our variety of whitening options, we’re able to take care of the discoloration in your smile. Call us or schedule an appointment online!