Discolored teeth are one of the most common problems in cosmetic dentistry. Teeth can easily be discolored by food or beverages, or they can emerge discolored due to the actions of certain drugs or because of excessive exposure to fluoride. If you are looking for cosmetic dentistry in Yorkville, veneers might be just the right treatment to restore your smile.
How Teeth Become Discolored
The most common cause of discoloration is exposure to staining agents. These commonly include:
- Nicotine
- Coffee
- Tea
- Dark juices or wine
- Strongly colored foods
This type of staining, called extrinsic staining, only affects the outer surfaces of the teeth. It is usually treated with teeth whitening. However, if staining is extremely stubborn, or if staining is intrinsic, veneers might be a better option.
Intrinsic staining refers to staining that has become a part of the material of the tooth. This is usually due to exposure to drugs or to fluoride, usually while the teeth are developing. In most cases, teeth whitening will not correct this type of discoloration.
Porcelain Veneers
When teeth whitening is not a successful option, porcelain veneers can restore your smile to perfection. Veneers are specially molded and individually color matched to your natural enamel. The porcelain reflects light in much the same way that natural enamel does, so that teeth treated with veneers are nearly indistinguishable from teeth that have not been treated. Your cosmetic dentist affixes the veneers to your teeth with an adhesive that bonds them to the enamel, making them strong and durable.
In addition to covering severe staining, veneers can also correct asymmetrical teeth, slight misalignment, or even small gaps between the teeth. They require very little restructuring of the teeth, and can be placed in two easy visits to the cosmetic dentist. If you have severely discolored teeth, and would like to improve the look of your smile, please contact our office to make an appointment or schedule a consultation.