Fix Stained Teeth
Be it age, genetics, poor oral hygiene, or the foods and drinks we consume, there are numerous things that can lead to staining or discoloration of the teeth. Often a cosmetic concern, people are likely curious as to the treatment options available. The following are some of the more common professional and at-home treatment options available to combat tooth staining or discoloration.
- Whitening Toothpaste: While virtually all toothpastes contain abrasive ingredients intended to scrub stains away, whitening toothpastes contain an additional polishing agent or chemical that makes the abrasives more powerful. When used regularly, and depending on the underlying cause of discoloration, whitening toothpastes have the ability to brighten teeth a few shades.
- Whitening Strips: These bleaching products are peroxide based and applied directly on the teeth 1-2 times per day for two weeks. Ideal for improving the appearance of mild tooth stains, whitening strips are available over the counter. They come in adhesive strip form or as gel that can be applied to the teeth with a brush.
- At-home Bleaching Trays: Using plastic trays filled with peroxide bleaching gel or paste, this method can help whiten moderate tooth stains. Once filled with the bleaching agent, the trays are worn for a designated amount of time daily for a month. Bleaching trays can be purchased for $150 to $300 over the counter and while effective for relatively minor tooth stains, they are not as powerful or effective as professional treatments.
- In-office Bleaching Trays: These custom-made trays from the dentist are more effective than their at-home counterparts because they are designed specifically to fit the patient’s mouth. This results in a better fit and prevents bleaching gel from leaking out. In addition to a better fit, the bleaching agents used by the dentist are much stronger than the pastes and gels associated with at-home kits. Dentists also frequently use light, heat, or a combination of both to intensify or speed up the whitening process. Often, whitening that is 3-8 shades brighter is common especially if the patient has multiple visits/treatments.
- Porcelain Veneers: For severe tooth discoloration, or that caused by aging or genetics, patients may require a more extensive restoration procedure. If the tooth discoloration does not improve with other whitening methods, the dentist may recommend porcelain veneers. Using thin layers of porcelain or composite resin that is bonded to the tooth surface, veneers provide a whiter, natural looking smile. Veneers are particularly useful when trauma, fluorosis, or tetracycline has caused the tooth’s inner dentin to grow dark.
- Avoid Staining Substances: Less a treatment than it is a lifestyle change, patients can help slow additional staining by avoiding substances that cause stains in the first place. Abstaining from smoking, for example, is one way patients can avoid the yellow or brown staining associated with tobacco. Reducing or abstaining from drinking coffee, tea, red wine, and some juices, can also reduce tooth discoloration. And practicing a proper daily flossing and brushing regimen not only will ensure overall oral health, it can help prevent the onset of staining.
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