Having discolored teeth can damage your confidence. Your smile should be something that you want to show off, not hide! Luckily, there are many ways you can treat your discolored teeth. Dr. Joyce Kim of Loyalsock Dental Associates, a dentist in Williamsport, PA, highlights the options available at our office.
Professional Teeth Whitening
If you think about getting your teeth whitened, this is probably what comes to mind. Professional teeth whitening has many benefits over drugstore solutions. Over the counter methods are often one size fits all and can cause uneven results. If they’re too big, they can also cause uncomfortable sensitivity where the bleaching agent has come in contact with soft tissue.
At Loyalsock Dental Associates, we offer a personalized solution that’s unique to every patient. This is because we work with a dental lab to make custom teeth-whitening trays. Impressions are taken of your smile so that the trays can be made to fit it exactly. They’re comfortable to wear and minimize problems with sensitivity.
Results with this type of teeth whitening are gradual. Dr. Kim will evaluate the discoloration of your teeth to determine an appropriate length of treatment to meet your cosmetic goals. Treatment is usually spread out over a number of weeks, with the patient wearing the whitening trays for a few hours each day.
Porcelain Veneers
Not all tooth discoloration is treatable with traditional teeth whitening techniques. Porcelain veneers offer a quality alternative for teeth stained by things like genetics or medication. Veneers are a thin shell made of dental ceramic that goes over the front and sides of your teeth. The material is made to be durable and stain-resistant for a long-lasting solution.
To get veneers, a small amount of tooth structure is removed. This is to ensure the veneers lay flat with the rest of your smile. Impressions are taken and the veneers are custom-made for your teeth. When they’re done, they’ll be fitted to make sure they both look and feel the way you want. If you’re satisfied, they’ll be permanently bonded to your teeth.
Dental Bonding
If you’re not ready for a permanent restoration and want an economical solution, dental bonding may be best for you. The bonding material is made of a composite resin that’s color-matched to the shade of white you’re looking for. It’s malleable and molded to match the shape of your tooth, meaning it can fix cosmetic chips and cracks as well.
First, a minimal amount of tooth structure is removed to ensure the resin adheres correctly. Dr. Kim will shape the bonding material so that it looks natural and covers the discoloration. Once you’re satisfied, the material is cured and hardened with a special light. The material is then polished so that it matches the natural sheen of the rest of your teeth.
Treating Tooth Discoloration at Your Williamsport, Pennsylvania Dentist
Are you ready to get a whiter smile that you’re ready to show off? Call us or schedule an appointment online.