No matter how hard you try, you can’t seem to overcome the brownish blemishes that have bespeckled your front teeth. If they’re the result of fluorosis, which is caused by overexposure to fluoride early in life, then vigorous toothbrushing and teeth whitening won’t suffice. Thankfully, there is still help available for you. As you continue reading, you’ll learn about an effective cosmetic dental procedure offered by your dentist in Marble Falls!
Why Teeth Whitening Doesn’t Help with Fluorosis
Professional teeth whitening uses high-powered bleaches to lift deeply embedded stains, so why doesn’t it work for fluorosis? The problem is that the bleaching process leaves teeth dehydrated, which makes them appear brighter than they really are. Thus, the fluorosis stains can become even more prominent.
Dental Bonding as a More Effective Option
Since teeth whitening is usually ineffective, the next best thing is to cover the blemishes. One way to accomplish this is with dental bonding, which involves your dentist applying composite resin directly to your teeth, shaping the material to fit into your smile line and hardening it using a special light. In a single visit, you can have your smile revamped.
However, dental bonding is better suited for milder cases of fluorosis. For more stubborn blemishes, there is yet another alternative.
Porcelain Veneers for a Permanent Smile
With porcelain veneers, which are thin ceramic shells that are custom designed by your dentist to match the shape, color and size of your other teeth, you don’t have to worry about any discoloration showing. That’s because the fixtures will completely cover the stained teeth.
Here’s how the procedure works:
- A thin layer of enamel is removed.
- Bite impressions are taken and sent to a lab that specializes in fabricating veneers.
- Temporary veneers are placed to protect the exposed dentin.
- When the permanent veneers return, they are bonded into position.
In just two-to-three visits, you’ll have a brand-new smile. The next step, then, is to protect it.
How to Maintain Your Results
One of the perks of porcelain veneers is that they are resistant to staining. Thus, you should never undergo teeth whitening once they’re placed. Otherwise, they can become tarnished and left with a matte finish.
Instead, you’ll simply brush and floss like you normally would (at least two times a day), avoid using your teeth as tools to trim fingernails or rip packages, and maintain regular visits to your dentist for checkups and cleanings.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy a beautiful and stainless smile for many years to come!
About the Author
Dr. Greg Ritchie is a graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He has received additional training from the world-renowned Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies, which has contributed to him providing comprehensive and concise care to his patients. Dr. Ritchie beautifies smiles by placing porcelain veneers at Ritchie Dental Group, and he can be reached for more information through his website.
