Enhance the Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry for Discolored Teeth
Discolored teeth can cause embarrassment, making some people want to hide their smiles. Fortunately, cosmetic dentistry treatments are available to address discoloration and enhance the overall appearance of the smile.
At Wyse Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, Dr. David Wyse and Dr. Jay Chrisman treat mild to severe dental stains with cosmetic dentistry for discolored teeth at their practice serving Bloomington, IL, Champaign, IL, and surrounding areas.
Whether patients have some surface yellowing or stains too deep for treatment with teeth whitening, the following cosmetic dentistry treatments can help.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can lift years of discoloration and instantly rejuvenate the smile. Our Bloomington dentists use the Zoom!® whitening system to brighten the smile by as much as eight shades in a single visit.
During Zoom! whitening treatment, a whitening gel consisting of 15 percent hydrogen peroxide is applied to the teeth. Next, a special blue light is applied to the treated teeth to activate the whitening gel. This light helps increase the effectiveness of the whitening gel, further breaking down dental stains.
After about 20 minutes, whitening results are assessed and treatment may be repeated several more times until the desired result is achieved.
Dental Veneers
Dental veneers are thin, porcelain shells placed over the front surface of the teeth. Although veneers are commonly used to mask dental imperfections like chips and minor cracks, they may also be used to treat discolored teeth.
Dental veneers can be made in any shade of white, making them a great option for people with severely discolored teeth. Each veneer is custom made and bonded to the surface of the teeth to provide beautiful results for many years to come.
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a cosmetic dentistry treatment that hides flaws, including discoloration, using a tooth-colored resin. The resin is applied and shaped directly on the front surface of the teeth. Once the desired shape is achieved, the resin is hardened using a special curing light.
Dental bonding is often a great option for those who have deep or severe dental stains as well as those who haven’t been able to achieve their desired results with teeth whitening alone.
Maintaining Results
Properly caring for the smile after receiving treatment for dental discoloration can help maintain whitening results and keep the teeth healthy. Some ways to care for the teeth and prolong results include:
- Avoiding foods and drinks that stain the teeth, like dark berries, coffee, and red wine.
- Don’t smoke or use tobacco products as these can turn the teeth yellow or brown.
- Brush for a full two minutes at least twice a day and floss daily.
- Use over-the-counter teeth whitening toothpaste to help maintain results.
- Those with veneers or dental bonding won’t benefit from whitening toothpastes but they should use soft-bristled toothbrushes and non-abrasive toothpaste to prevent scratching their veneers or dental bonding.
Contact Wyse Family & Cosmetic Dentistry
If you are interested in achieving a brighter white smile and would like to learn more about your options, call Wyse Family & Cosmetic Dentistry at (309) 663-6393 or contact us online.
