Teeth come in many shades and tones, but you can’t put a price on the benefits of a bright smile. Unfortunately, few people have white teeth naturally, and they can change color over time. Many people turn to over-the-counter products to combat stains. If you’ve given a few a try, you probably weren’t happy with the results because not all stains are the same. Not to mention, OTC products don’t contain professional-grade whitening agents to achieve the results you want. Instead, here’s how to treat the most common types of tooth discoloration.
Types of Tooth Stains
The color of your teeth is influenced by many things, like genetics, oral hygiene habits, and diet. As a result, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution to treat discoloration. Identifying the type of stain is essential to reveal a bright smile, like:
- Extrinsic Stains: Also known as surface stains, they are caused by external factors, like poor oral hygiene, drinking a lot of coffee, or smoking.
- Intrinsic Stains: Stains originating from the tooth structure can be difficult to treat, like those caused by fluorosis or certain medications.
- Age-Related Stains: Your enamel gets thinner with age, which causes more of your yellowish dentin to be visible. Age-related stains are a combination of extrinsic and intrinsic.
Although OTC products are convenient, they will not provide any noticeable results because they don’t contain a high concentration of whitening ingredients. Not to mention, not all types of stains will respond to traditional whitening treatments. It’s best to visit a professional to achieve the results you desire.
Options to Treat Tooth Stains
Your cosmetic dentist will examine your mouth to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy, which are requirements before any elective services. They will also determine the source of your discoloration to recommend an effective solution, which may include:
- Professional Take-Home Whitening Kit: You can enjoy the convenience of an OTC product and the results of an in-office treatment with a professional take-home kit. Your dentist will give you everything you need to whiten your teeth gradually for 2 weeks. Your smile can get up to 8 shades of whiter, with results that can last for many months or years with the right aftercare.
- Porcelain Veneers: If discoloration isn’t your only concern, or you have stubborn stains, porcelain veneers can be a better option. Attaching veneers to the teeth visible when smiling allows you to cover stains, chips, and gaps using a minimally invasive method. Your results can last for a decade or longer.
You can turn back the clock to reveal whiter teeth using the latest solutions in dentistry. You won’t think twice before showing your pearly whites.
About Dr. Sarah Pitarra
Dr. Pitarra strives to provide each patient with the compassionate dental care they deserve. After earning her dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry, she has regularly continued her education in many specialties, like sedation, dental implants, and cosmetic dentistry. She is a member of several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Request an appointment through our website or call (361) 494-2035.