Teeth that appear to be yellow, gray, or stained can detract from the natural beauty of your smile and affect your feeling of self-confidence. Discolored teeth are one of those common dental concerns that people have but don’t know where to turn for help. Our cosmetic dentist in Annapolis, MD, Dr. Vernon Sheen, has helped patients get whiter, brighter-looking smiles for over 20 years.
He will work with you on an individual basis to determine the cause of your tooth stains or discoloration. Then, he will recommend the most appropriate solution to meet your cosmetic goals and treat discolored teeth in his Annapolis, MD, dental office.
Why Do I Have Stained Teeth?
There is a wide range of reasons for discolored teeth, including:
- Effects of dark foods and drinks such as coffee, teas, colas, wines, and certain fruits and vegetables
- Tobacco: Smoking can turn teeth yellow
- Poor dental hygiene: Neglecting to brush or floss
- Disease: For example, head and neck radiation, chemotherapy, and certain infections contracted during pregnancy
- Age
- Genetics
- Environment: Excessive fluoride levels in the water, for example
- Certain medications and medical conditions
Zoom Teeth Whitening
Once Dr. Sheen has confirmed that you are a good candidate for teeth whitening, he will discuss your options. We offer both customized take-home kits and an in office Zoom whitening procedure for fast, dramatic results. To complete the Zoom teeth whitening process in one sitting (less than 1 hour), you may want to consider Zoom Whitening.
Zoom Whitening is an excellent option for most patients and can deliver results up to 8 shades lighter. Zoom Whitening uses a hydrogen-peroxide whitening gel, which is applied to the teeth in three 15-minute sessions. When activated by the Zoom light, the bleaching gel breaks up stains to reduce or eliminate the discoloration.
Other Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth
Although most tooth stains can be effectively treated with our professional teeth whitening, there are certain situations where you may need an alternative treatment option to achieve your expected results. Dr. Sheen can use a variety of cosmetic dentistry procedures to provide a lasting white smile, including:
Cosmetic tooth bonding: Cosmetic tooth bonding is an economical and quick solution to hiding discolored teeth. A tooth colored resin material is applied to the tooth and shaped and polished to blend in with the rest of your natural teeth.
Dental crowns: If your discoloration is severe and cannot be removed with professional whitening, a dental crown is an option. The crown will cover the entire tooth to disguise any imperfections.
Dental veneers: Another option to completely hide a discolored tooth is dental veneers. A veneer is a thin shell made of high-quality ceramic materials that cover the front and sides of a tooth.
Discolored Teeth FAQs
Read answers to common questions about discolored teeth in Annapolis, MD:
How do you make teeth whitening last?
Teeth whitening is not permanent, but the results may be long-lasting with proper care. Caution must be taken to avoid foods, beverages, or habits that contribute to discoloration. At-home touch-up treatment can help keep your teeth looking white and bright.
Can you whiten veneers, bonding, or crowns?
You cannot whiten dental veneers, tooth bonding, or dental crowns. The porcelain or resin materials that make these restorations do not react to bleaching agents. If you need these treatments, we recommend teeth whitening beforehand so we can color-match the restoration to your teeth.
Can discolored teeth be a sign of a dental problem?
Discolored teeth can sometimes be a sign of a dental problem. While many stains are caused by foods, drinks, or smoking, discoloration can also mean something more serious is happening with your teeth.
For example, brown or black spots could mean you have cavities or tooth decay. Yellowish discoloration may be caused by worn-down enamel, which can make your teeth more sensitive. Gray or dark coloring in a single tooth could happen if the tooth is injured or has a dying nerve. White spots might be an early sign of enamel damage or too much fluoride.
Can dental crowns stain like natural teeth?
Yes, dental crowns can indeed stain over time, just like natural teeth. While dental crowns are made from materials that are more resistant to stains compared to natural teeth, they are not entirely immune. After you get crowns, we recommend that you continue to brush and floss daily. You can also avoid staining foods and drinks.
Can a nutrition deficiency change the color of my teeth?
Yes, a lack of certain nutrients can affect the color of your teeth. If you don’t get enough calcium, teeth can look yellow or become weaker because calcium is essential for strong enamel. Without enough vitamin D, your body can’t absorb calcium properly, which can weaken enamel and lead to discoloration.
People with low iron levels might develop pale gums and teeth. They also have an increased risk of stains from certain medications used to treat iron deficiency.
Can I get quick teeth whitening for a special event?
Yes! We recommend in-office Zoom whitening for quick yet effective teeth whitening. You can get results from Zoom in just one office visit. For many patients, this treatment can brighten their teeth by multiple shades.
If you have a wedding, birthday, or graduation coming up and want to look your best, we recommend in-office whitening.
Will my teeth get brighter if I brush and floss every day?
If you brush and floss every day it can help keep your teeth clean and bright. A good oral hygiene routine removes surface stains, plaque, and food particles. This helps prevent some tooth stains. However, it might not make them significantly brighter if they’re already stained or naturally darker.
How much does it cost to whiten teeth?
The cost of teeth whitening in Annapolis depends on many factors, which can include:
- Type of whitening treatment
- Number of treated teeth
- Insurance coverage
If you get professional teeth whitening, it will not cost as much as treatments like veneers or crowns. Many cosmetic treatments are seen as elective procedures, so they may not be covered by insurance. We will review the estimated cost of treatment with you in our office.
Schedule a Dental Exam and Consultation
Many people think stained, yellow, or discolored teeth are a normal part of life. But with simple teeth whitening procedures, you can experience a white, glowing smile. Call Dr. Sheen of Annapolis today to schedule a consultation and determine the best method for you.