Do you want to achieve a whiter, more radiant smile? Looking for a quick way to whiten teeth?
It’s common for many patients to seek solutions for improving their smiles. One of the most common ways to achieve a brighter smile is with cosmetic dentistry, or more specifically, professional tooth whitening. Thanks to advancements in cosmetic dentistry, there is a wider range of cosmetic solutions to address discolored teeth than ever before. Treating discolored teeth is just one of the dental concerns Dr. Victor Gittlemen addresses at his Morristown, NJ, dental office.
Dr. Gittleman offers many options for whitening yellowed, stained, and discolored teeth. Our team at Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry will work with you to find the best treatment for your smile. Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry is a full-service dentist office in Morristown, New Jersey. We offer a complete range of cosmetic dentistry services, including professional teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and dental bonding.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Yellow Teeth: It is common for the enamel to wear down and appear yellow as we age. As enamel wears down, the dark under-layer of dentin shows. Typically, this type of tooth discoloration can be treated using high-quality bleaching agents such as Zoom! in-office professional teeth whitening.
White Spots: White spots typically develop as a result of overexposure to fluoride on the teeth. These pesky spots can be treated with professional teeth whitening, dental veneers, and dental bonding.
Dark Spots: Dark or brown spots on the enamel are often caused by dental trauma, certain medications, and tooth damage. This type of discoloration is resistant to tooth whitening treatment and may require an alternative treatment such as dental veneers, porcelain crowns, or tooth bonding.
Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth in Morristown, NJ
Your treatment for discolored teeth will depend on the underlying cause. Prior to any treatment, Dr. Gittleman will assess your teeth to determine which treatment option will best suit your needs.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening will allow you to achieve a whiter, brighter smile. We use a high concentration of bleaching gels and modern dental tools to effectively remove tough stains and brighten discolored teeth. Dr. Gittleman offers both in-office professional teeth whitening and at-home whitening kits.
The in-office treatment will involve a one hour appointment. Dr. Gittleman will apply the bleaching agent and active it with a special light. The take-home whitening treatment is easy and convenient for patients. It involves using whitening trays and bleaching gels every day for specific time period. To learn more about our professional whitening options, see Teeth Whitening.
Tooth Bonding
Teeth that may not respond to professional whitening can be whitened with dental bonding. Bonding is a minimally invasive cosmetic dentistry treatment that can hide many tooth defects. Dr. Gittleman can complete it in one office visit by applying the material to a stained tooth, shaping it, and curing it.
Dental bonding is a not a permanent solution for discolored teeth. It is less durable and stain-resistant than dental crowns and porcelain veneers. However, it is an affordable and noninvasive solution for stained, discolored, or yellow teeth. To learn more about the benefits of dental bonding, see Tooth Bonding.
Porcelain Veneers
A more permanent solution for discolored teeth is dental veneers. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that we will custom design for the stained tooth. They are a popular cosmetic dentistry treatment that can improve the color of your teeth and overall appearance of your smile.
Dr. Gittleman will take dental impressions and design a custom veneer that he will bond to the front of the tooth. He will need to remove a small amount of your tooth’s surface to create room for the porcelain veneer. Because we must alter your tooth, it is considered a permanent treatment. To learn more about the porcelain veneers process, see Porcelain Veneers.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are an excellent option to treat teeth that are severely discolored or stained. Even though they are more commonly used for restorative purposes, Dr. Gittleman may suggest using a crown to enhance the appearance of your tooth.
Dr. Gittleman will need to reduce the size of your tooth significantly. Then, he will take impressions of your teeth and design a crown to fit perfectly over top of it. A dental crown is like a cap that will encase the whole tooth all the way to the gum line. We will create a crown that is molded, shaped, and color-matched to blend seamlessly with your existing teeth. To learn more about the benefits of dental crowns, see Dental Crown.
Discolored Teeth FAQs
Discolored teeth are a common concern for many people. Teeth can change color for many reasons, like what we eat and drink, smoking, or simply aging. Understanding why teeth discolor and what can be done about it can help you keep a bright smile. Here, we answer common FAQs about discolored teeth, from causes to treatments. Whether you want to prevent stains or explore whitening options, we’re here to help with all your questions.
How do I stop my teeth from staining?
To stop teeth staining, brush twice daily and floss daily to remove plaque. Avoid drinks that stain, like coffee, tea, and red wine, or use a straw to limit contact with your teeth. Quit smoking or using chewing tobacco, as they can yellow your teeth. Regular cleanings also help keep your teeth whiter and brighter. Using whitening toothpaste gives you extra protection against staining.
Are there any side effects of professional tooth whitening?
Yes, there are side effects with professional whitening. The most common is tooth sensitivity. This side effect causes sharp pain or tingling, especially with hot or cold foods. Some people may also notice mild gum irritation if the whitening gel touches their gums. These side effects usually go away after a few days. Using products as directed and talking to your dentist can help reduce any discomfort.
Can dental fillings cause tooth discoloration?
Yes, fillings can cause tooth discoloration. Silver or amalgam fillings can darken over time, making the tooth look gray. These fillings can also cause a shadow on the surrounding teeth. White or composite fillings usually blend in with natural teeth. Still, they can stain if you expose them to coffee, tea, or smoking. Regular check-ups can help your dentist spot any changes and suggest changes to your dental care routine or a new restoration.
Do teeth change color as we age?
Yes, they do. Over time, the outer enamel wears away, and the yellowish dentin underneath is revealed. Years of eating and drinking and habits like smoking will also contribute to the staining. Medications or health changes can also affect tooth color. Regular brushing, flossing, and cleanings can help, but some color change in your teeth is a part of aging.
Can smoking or tobacco use cause tooth discoloration?
Yes, smoking or using tobacco can cause tooth discoloration. Tobacco stains teeth because it has tar and nicotine, which can cause yellow or brown spots. Over time, these stains can get darker and more complex to remove. Smoking also increases plaque buildup, which can make teeth look dull. Quitting smoking and good oral care like brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits can help prevent and reduce staining.
How often should I get my teeth professionally cleaned to stop tooth discoloration?
To stop tooth discoloration, you should get your teeth professionally cleaned every 6 months. Cleanings help remove surface stains, plaque, and tartar that brushing can’t remove. If you drink coffee, tea or smoke you may need to get cleanings more often. Your dentist can tell you what’s best for you. Keeping up with cleanings helps keep your teeth white and reduces other dental problems.
We Offer Treatment for Discolored Teeth in Morristown, NJ
As a premier cosmetic dentistry office near you in Morristown NJ, we offer a full range of cosmetic solutions to brighten stained or discolored teeth. We aim to help each of our patients address their dentistry needs and get one step closer to their ideal smile with personalized dental care.
Dr. Gittleman can assess your needs during your cosmetic consultation and determine which cosmetic treatment is right for you. Would you like to explore your treatment options for discolored teeth? Visit Morristown Cosmetic Dentistry. To schedule an appointment, call (973) 287-3337 or request an appointment online.