Are dental stains preventing you from flashing that bright and perfect smile? This may be a result of poor oral hygiene habits or your health in general. Fortunately, there are still various cosmetic dentistry solutions that could help you get your stain-free smile back.
Here at Dunkling & Penney Dentistry, you can consult with one of our dentists, Dr. Paul Dunkling or Dr. Greg Penney, in our Jericho or Burlington, VT, offices to determine whether veneers, teeth whitening, or some other treatment will best fit your needs.
What are Extrinsic Stains?
These are the most typical type of dental stains, and they affect the surface or exterior of your teeth. An extrinsic stain is typically caused by heavily-colored residue from the food or drinks that you consume. The accumulation of plaque on your teeth is what the stain adheres to.
The most frequent causes of extrinsic stains include:
- Tea
- Coffee
- Dark sodas or juice
- Balsamic vinegar
- Red wine
- Dark-colored berries
- Red wine
- Tomato sauce
- Curry
- Tobacco products
Getting Rid of Extrinsic Stains
Since extrinsic stains occur only on the surface of your teeth, teeth-whitening treatments such as the following can help rid of them effectively:
- In-office Tooth Whitening: This method is quicker and more efficient compared to using at-home kits since the bleaching solution utilized by your dentist is stronger. Heat, light, or a blend of both may be used to accelerate the whitening process. Your teeth can lighten up to about three to eight shades in just several 30 to 60-minute visits.
- At-Home Tooth Whitening: Your dentist will guide and provide you with a custom-made tray and bleaching solution with instructions. Your teeth will whiten at a slower pace—about a few days to a few weeks.
What are Intrinsic Stains?
These types of stains are found underneath the tooth’s surface or the dentin. Your dentin is naturally darker and yellower than your enamel and could be visible or uncovered when the enamel has worn down. The most common causes of intrinsic stains are trauma, tooth decay, and aging.
Removing Intrinsic Stains
Intrinsic stains are not easily removed by surface-whitening methods. This means that permanent solutions for discoloration will be most effective. Your dentist will determine which treatment will be most suitable for you during a consultation at either one of our offices in Jericho or Burlington, VT. Generally speaking, your options include:
- Veneers: Since they are made to cover the anterior of the teeth, they can be utilized to replace damaged enamel.
- Dental Fillings and Crowns: Both are made to restore teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay. Thus, they can redefine the appearance or color of your teeth.
- Dental Implants: If your teeth are severely damaged, replacing them with implants could be the most effective method to restore their appearance.
Looking to Get Rid of Dental Stains with Veneers or In-Office Whitening? Give Us a Call
You can reach Dunkling & Penney Dentistry and set up an evaluation with Dr. Paul Dunkling or Dr. Greg Penney by calling our Burlington, VT, practice at 802-863-3479 and our Jericho, VT, office at (802) 899-3973.