What Can I Do to Fix Stained Teeth?
When you have discolored teeth, you may find yourself avoiding situations where you’re laughing or eating in public. But your smile should never be something you feel like you have to hide. Luckily, there are many options to treat discolored teeth. Dr. Glen Wainwright of Austin Dental Care discusses your options for cosmetic dentistry in Austin, TX.
Professional Teeth Whitening
This is what you typically think of when you think of whitening your teeth at the dentist. Professional teeth whitening has many advantages over drugstore options. Over the counter whitening products are usually one size fits all. This can lead to you having blotchy, uneven results, and sensitivity in your gums where the bleaching agent comes into contact with them.
Professional teeth whitening is completely different. In-office teeth whitening gets you quick results in about an hour or so at our office. We monitor the entire process and ensure that you’ll be able to get your whitening procedure safely. We’re also able to use whitening products that are stronger and more effective than over the counter options.
Dr. Wainwright will evaluate your smile to make sure we can safely whiten your teeth. Your soft tissue will be treated to avoid sensitivity. A whitening gel is painted on the teeth and will be left on for about half an hour so that the active agents have time to work. We’ll have you look at the results and decide whether you want more gel to whiten your smile further.
Porcelain Veneers
Traditional tooth whitening techniques don’t always work for certain causes of discoloration. Porcelain veneers are an option for those tougher stains caused by things like genetics or medication. Veneers are thin shells of dental ceramic that go over the front and sides of your teeth. The material is designed to be durable and stain-resistant.
To get veneers, some of your tooth structure will be removed. We want to make sure the veneers lay flat and flush with the rest of your smile. Impressions will be taken for the veneers to be custom-made. When they arrive, we’ll fit them to your teeth to make sure they look and feel the way you like. If you’re satisfied, they’ll be permanently bonded to your teeth.
Dental Bonding
If you’re looking for an economical option and aren’t ready for a permanent solution, dental bonding may be the right choice for you. The bonding material is made of a composite resin that’s malleable and color-matched to the shade you’re looking for. The material is malleable and can also be used to treat things like cosmetic chips and cracks during the whitening as well.
A minimal amount of your tooth structure will be removed to make sure that the resin will adhere to the teeth. Our dentist molds it to the shape of your tooth so that it blends in and looks natural. When you’re satisfied with the result, a special light is used to cure and harden the material. It’s then polished to match the sheen of natural teeth.
Cosmetic Dentistry in Austin, Texas
Ready to get the whiter smile you’re ready to show off? Call us or schedule an appointment online. To learn more about our cosmetic dentistry services, see Cosmetic Dentistry.