Causes & Whitening Solutions for Stained Teeth
Discolored teeth are a common concern, affecting both appearance and confidence. Understanding what results in discoloration is the first step to achieving a brighter smile. From daily habits to dietary choices and even a handful of medical conditions, various factors can lead to teeth losing their natural whiteness. Fortunately, our Largo cosmetic dentist has effective professional teeth whitening solutions available, each tailored to address specific types of stains.
Here are a few as well as two ways we can help you achieve your desired brightness.
What Makes Teeth Change Color?
Oftentimes, the hidden reason for brown oryellow teeth is not so hidden after all. For example, if you’re like many adults around the world, you drink coffee in the mornings. Unfortunately, coffee can easily stain your teeth when consumed on a regular basis.
Avid tea drinkers also fall into this camp thanks to its intense color pigments that cling to your enamel. The pigments are known as chromogens and are contained in other beverages like red wine as well.
Darker teeth can also be caused by:
- Smoking or other tobacco use
- Natural aging
- Oral trauma or injury
- Certain medications
- Excessive fluoride exposure (fluorosis)
- Poor dental hygiene
If you identify with one of the reasons listed above, our cosmetic dentist can help by either performing our in-office or giving you custom whitening trays and gel to take home. We can also discuss the possibility of porcelain veneers if your specific tooth discoloration is severe.
Please remember that if you want your results to last after treatment, the cessation of tobacco use, regular dental cleanings, and daily oral hygiene are all encouraged.
Key Points to Consider
Teeth whitening isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The level of whiteness desired post-treatment depends on several factors, including the original shade of your teeth, your daily habits, and the type of selected. Our dentist will use a tooth color chart to gauge the whitening process and allow you to visualize potential outcomes.
However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that genetics, diet, and oral health play significant roles in determining the final shade of your teeth. For instance, someone with naturally yellow teeth might not achieve the same level of whiteness as someone with a lighter starting shade, even when using the same whitening method. With that said, we will do our best to work with you and deliver a result that you’re proud to show off.
Option #1: In-Office Whitening
For those seeking faster and more dramatic results, our in-office whitening treatment is the way to go. Performed under the supervision of our dentist and assistants, these procedures use high-concentration bleaching agents that significantly lighten teeth in just one visit.
In-office whitening offers a more controlled and customized experience, with our dentist tailoring the treatment to meet individual whitening goals. Compared to our at-home option, in-office treatment provides immediate improvements, making it ideal for special occasions or for individuals looking for quick results.
Option #2: At-Home Whitening
Take-home whitening has gained popularity for its convenience and ability to gradually brighten teeth from the comfort of home. Kits from our Largo, FL, dental office include whitening gel and custom-fitted trays from our dentist that contain a safe, yet higher concentration of bleaching agents compared to store-bought options.
The application process typically spans across a few weeks but this does depend on your goal shade. While at-home whitening is less immediate in showing results, it does offer an affordable and flexible approach to teeth whitening.
Call to Schedule a Whitening Consultation
If you’re ready to give teeth whitening a go, our cosmetic dentist in Largo, FL, can speak with you about both available options so you’re informed before starting any treatment. Call or text David W. Piper, DMD Family Dentistry at (727) 548-7100 to request an appointment today!
