3 Helpful Facts About Whitening Your Teeth

The color of your teeth can affect your confidence in your smile. If they have become dull or discolored, it can make you self-conscious about your appearance. While a number of methods exist for changing the color of your teeth, the approach you take can be affected by the type, and severity, of discoloration. Your dentist can work with you to find the right cosmetic treatment for your teeth. An informed choice in how you treat tooth stains can help you attain your desired results.

1. Over-The-Counter Whitening Treatments Only Address Surface Stains

Over-the-counter whitening treatments can treat stains, but only on the outer layers of your enamel. In contrast, the whitening treatments from your dentist can break up stains that have settled into your enamel, for more pronounced results.

2. Some Forms Of Discoloration Are Less Responsive To Whitening Agents

If your teeth have been discolored by an injury, or if discoloration was caused by taking medications, a whitening treatment may not be right for you. Whitening treatments address extrinsic stains, or stains in your enamel from certain foods and drinks, or tobacco use. If you have a tooth that has darkened after an accident, tooth bonding can cover discoloration. If you are unhappy with the color of your teeth, and they do not respond adequately to whitening, you can have porcelain veneers placed on them.

3. Whitening Agents Will Not Work For Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are permanent, and are not responsive to whitening agents. If you want to preserve the color of your veneers, be sure to limit your consumption of darker foods and beverages.