If you have discolored teeth it may be hard for you to feel confident in your smile. And you deserve to have one that you’re happy to show off. Dr. Ken Schweifler, a cosmetic dentist in Los Altos, CA, highlights the options that are available at our practice.
Professional Teeth Whitening
When you think about treating your discolored smile at the dentist, professional teeth whitening is probably what you think of. The professional version is much better than over the counter options. Drugstore whitening solutions often lead to splotchy and uneven results. Since they’re usually one size fits all, you can develop sensitivity in the gums where the bleaching agent came in contact.
At our office, we offer at-home teeth whitening solutions. Impressions are taken of your smile so custom bleaching trays can be made to fit your mouth. We give you professional-grade whitening gel that you put inside them. Because they’re custom, you should get even results and you won’t have to worry about accidental permanent sensitivity.
At a consultation with your dentist, he’ll be able to help determine how long your treatment should last. You’ll wear them for a few hours each night for a number of weeks until you get the shade you desire.
Porcelain Veneers
Not all stains and discolorations are able to be treated with traditional whitening techniques. Porcelain veneers can help you with teeth that are stained by things like medication or genetics. Veneers are made of thin shells of dental ceramic that go over the front and sides of the tooth. The material is designed to be durable and stain-resistant to be a lasting restoration.
To get veneers, some of your tooth structure will be removed. We want to make sure the veneers lay flat and flush with the rest of your smile. Impressions are taken so that the veneers can be custom-made. When they’re ready, we fit them to your teeth to make sure they look and feel the way you want. If you’re satisfied, they’ll be permanently bonded to your teeth.
Dental Bonding
If you’re looking for an economical solution and aren’t ready for a permanent restoration, dental bonding may be the choice for you. The bonding material is made of a composite resin that can be color-matched to the shade you like. It’s malleable, so you can also treat some cosmetic chips and cracks while you’re whitening.
To get bonding, a minimal amount of tooth structure will be removed to ensure the material adheres to your tooth. It’s molded into the shape of the tooth to look natural. When you’re happy with the result, the material will be cured and hardened. It’s then polished to match the sheen of the rest of your teeth.
Treating Discolored Teeth at Your Los Altos, California Cosmetic Dentist
Ready to get the whiter smile you’ve been hoping for? Call us or schedule an appointment online.