Cosmetic Dentistry Treatments for Discolored Teeth
The teeth are regularly exposed to foods and beverages that can discolor enamel or cause surface stains. Additionally, oral injuries and certain lifestyle habits can leave the teeth looking dull and discolored rather than bright and white. Given the many factors that can compromise tooth color, it is not surprising that discoloration is one of the most common cosmetic dentistry complaints.
At Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist, Drs. Alex and Jason Hecht offer several cosmetic dentistry treatments for discolored teeth. We assist our Staten Island, NY, patients in finding a cosmetic dentistry treatment to enhance the appearance of the smile and brighten tooth color, while best addressing their unique needs and desires.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is one of the most popular treatments for discolored teeth. Teeth whitening is a fast and affordable way to eliminate surface stains and enhance tooth color. An in-office teeth whitening treatment is typically completed in just under an hour.
During the procedure, a whitening gel is carefully applied to the surface of the teeth. The teeth are then exposed to a special light that activates bleaching agents in the gel so that stains and discoloration are lifted away. One professional teeth whitening treatment can improve the color of the teeth by up to eight shades.
One important consideration for teeth whitening treatment is that it is only effective on extrinsic stains, which are stains that exist on the outer layer of tooth enamel. If stains or discoloration are deep-set, patients are likely to be better candidates for an alternate cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is another fast and affordable solution for discoloration. During a dental bonding treatment, a tooth-colored compound is applied directly to the tooth. The compound is shaped to conceal stains or discoloration while maintaining the tooth’s natural appearance.
Like teeth whitening, dental bonding treatment is usually complete in under an hour. While dental bonding can effectively enhance tooth color, this treatment is best suited to those of our Staten Island patients who only have one or two teeth of concern. To address multiple teeth at once other treatments are more appropriate.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are one of the most versatile cosmetic dentistry treatments. Porcelain veneers are wafer-thin ceramic shells that are bonded to the facial surface of the teeth. Porcelain veneers conceal the natural teeth to give individuals a brighter and whiter-looking smile.
One of the many benefits of porcelain veneers is that they are able to address multiple flaws at once. Rather than just addressing tooth color, porcelain veneers can also hide aesthetic imperfections like chips, cracks, fractures, gapped teeth, misshapen teeth, and minor misalignment problems.
Dental Crowns
Sometimes tooth discoloration is the result of an infection or dental damage. If a tooth has been compromised not only by aesthetic blemishes, but structural flaws as well, a dental crown is likely to be the best treatment option.
During dental crown treatment, a tooth is reshaped to remove damaged material. A crown is then placed over the tooth. The crown fits like a small cap. It covers the entire crown of the tooth, providing a strong and protective covering that simultaneously enhances the appearance of the tooth and brightens its color.
Contact Us Today
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile due to discoloration or dental stains, Drs. Alex and Jason Hecht would be happy to help you find a solution. To learn more about the cosmetic dentistry treatments offered at Staten Island Aesthetic & Implant Dentist, contact our dental practice online, or call (718) 705-4434.
