Teeth whitening treatments are among the most popular options in cosmetic dentistry. With more than half of Americans insecure about their teeth,1 improving the brightness of your smile is something that most people would appreciate. Your cosmetic dentist can provide you with various options for a whiter smile.
Take-Home Whitening Kits
If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, you can also ask your cosmetic dentist about take-home whitening kits. These kits are similar to some products on store shelves but use a more potent gel from a qualified dentist.
The basic treatment process is the same as over-the-counter kits. You apply the whitening gel to trays and place them on your teeth for a fixed time, generally 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll repeat that daily for several weeks and have brighter teeth.
One big difference from over-the-counter kits is that take-home whitening kits deliver better results. Your teeth will be brighter, and your results will be noticeable sooner. Take-home whitening kits use custom trays from your dentist to ensure optimal coverage and comfort. Take-home whitening kits are a convenient cosmetic dentistry treatment.
Porcelain Veneers
Not all tooth stains are the same. Extrinsic stains affect the outer layers of your teeth and are generally caused by food and drinks such as coffee, tea, and wine. They can accumulate over time even if you don’t partake in those beverages. These stains respond well to whitening gel, which breaks down the colors.
On the other hand, intrinsic stains affect the inner layers of your teeth, and you can see them through the translucent enamel. These are typically caused by injury or certain types of medication. Whitening gel can’t reach these stains, so other cosmetic dentistry procedures are needed.
Porcelain veneers are one such option. A thin layer of enamel is removed from the front of a tooth, and a custom porcelain veneer is applied. This provides a natural yet flawless appearance, dealing with intrinsic stains, chips, cracks, misshapen teeth, and other potential issues.
Porcelain Dental Crowns
In some cases, a porcelain dental crown may be an appropriate option to deal with intrinsic stains. A crown requires the removal of more material around the outside of the tooth to prepare a base that it sits over. This provides an immaculate appearance, along with exceptional protection and durability.
If your tooth has visible intrinsic discoloration on multiple sides, a porcelain crown restores its entire appearance — not just the front of the tooth. And if a tooth has other issues, such as decay or physical damage, then a porcelain crown addresses the tooth’s appearance and integrity.
Your Experienced Cosmetic Dentist in Webster, NY
If you are unsure about which cosmetic dentistry option is best for you, schedule an appointment with Empire Dental Care for a consultation with Dr. Tehila Cohen to find the solution that suits your unique needs. Dr. Cohen can develop a custom treatment plan to restore your smile’s brightness with a gentle touch. Book your appointment today to get started. Give us a call at 585-671-1650.
Sources:
[1] https://nypost.com/2019/01/24/more-than-half-of-americans-feel-insecure-about-their-teeth/
