Whitening treatments are intended to treat stains that have discolored your enamel. Over-the-counter treatments address surface stains, while the whitening treatments from your dentist can treat stains that are deeper-set in your enamel. But what about discoloration that comes from something other than enamel stains? Standard whitening may be less well-suited to treat discoloration that comes from physical trauma, or from taking certain medications. Your dentist can help you determine if traditional whitening methods are right for you. If you are not an ideal candidate for this treatment, other cosmetic treatments are available to help you attain the smile you want to show the world.

Teeth Whitening From Your Dentist

Your dentist can offer a whitening treatment in-office, or provide the necessary tools for you to whiten your teeth at home. For at-home treatment, you will receive custom-fit trays to ensure that the provided whitening agent is evenly applied to your teeth. Daily application of the whitening treatment should provide you with desired results in approximately two weeks. In-office treatment can typically be done in a single visit. Unlike over-the-counter whitening solutions, the treatment from your dentist uses bleaching compounds to affect stains that have settled into your enamel, not just discoloration on the surface of your teeth.

Cosmetic Treatments To Whiten Teeth

If your teeth are less responsive to whitening, other techniques are available. You can have porcelain veneers permanently attached to the front of your teeth. The veneers can present the appearance of vividly white teeth, and also hide any other problems with your natural teeth. Your dentist can perform dental bonding on a tooth that has become discolored due to damage. The resin used for bonding can have its tint adjusted to match your teeth.