Posted: August 26, 2021
There are many causes of tooth stains, but only two types:
- Extrinsic: stains on the outside of the enamel
- Intrinsic: Stains underneath the enamel
The type of tooth stains you are dealing with will have a direct impact on which cosmetic treatment will be best for your needs.
Topical Stains
Topical stains are caused by foods and beverages, oral hygiene habits, and personal decisions such as tobacco use. Some of the discoloration caused by these factors can be removed through enhanced at-home care along with professional cleanings.
When cleaning alone is not enough to address topical staining, teeth whitening is a great option. Dr. Frank DePaola offers in-office whitening with Zoom! 2™, a safe and effective chairside option that can lighten teeth up to 10 shades in just one hour.
For patients who prefer to lighten teeth at home, we offer the KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ system, a comfortable and incredibly effective treatment that can lighten teeth up to 16 shades with consistent and proper use. The best way to learn which of these options will have the most impact on your smile is through a one-on-one consultation at our comfortable Hoboken office.
Deep Stains
Intrinsic tooth stains are often caused by fluorosis or certain medications. These stains do not always respond well to topical whitening. In fact, bleaching surrounding enamel may serve to make them more noticeable. For deep stains, a more progressive cosmetic treatment is often best.
Both porcelain veneers and dental bonding can be used to address deep stains. Placed over teeth that have become discolored by internal stains, these options can produce a natural-looking and stain-free appearance for several years at a time. Because they cover the front of the teeth, these options may also be best for teeth that have become dingy with age or yellowed due to thinning enamel.
Combining Treatments
For some patients, a combination of treatments is the best solution. This can include veneers on teeth that have deep stains and topical whitening for those with surface staining. Additional services, such as laser dentistry, may also assist in creating a complete smile makeover. We can discuss these options as appropriate during your initial consultation to help ensure you are receiving the most comprehensive treatment possible.
Please call Frank R. DePaola D.D.S. & Associates, LLC at 201-792-9400 to schedule a consultation today. Located in Hoboken, we serve all surrounding areas of New Jersey.
