How Can I Fix My Discolored Teeth?

What Causes Discolored Teeth?

The most common cause of yellow teeth is the natural aging process. As we age, our teeth naturally lose their protective outer coating, called enamel. The enamel wears away and exposes the underlying dentin and other tissues that are normally protected by the enamel. When these tissues are exposed to bacteria in plaque, they can turn yellow. Other causes may include:

  • Genetics
  • Medical conditions
  • Certain medications, such as tetracycline
  • Smoking and tobacco use
  • Dark beverages and foods such as wine, tea, and coffee

Zoom Teeth Whitening

For in-office whitening, we recommend patients start with a cleaning. Next, we prepare the mouth for the whitening procedure by isolating the lips and gums. The proprietary Zoom Whitening gel is applied to the teeth, which is activated by a specially designed light.

Teeth typically become at least six to ten shades whiter – sometimes more! A five-minute fluoride treatment completes the procedure. You will be amazed by the results. In most cases, your teeth will continue to whiten in the first few days following the procedure.

Dr. Engelberg or Dr. Mullarkey may also recommend take-home trays for maintenance of your newly whitened smile, and provides them for free during the in-office whitening process!

Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth

For patients with otherwise healthy teeth, Zoom teeth whitening can remove stains from common lifestyle habits and the natural darkening that occurs with aging. Dr. Engelberg offers an in-office treatment that can provide dramatic results for most patients with little to no side effects such as increased sensitivity. Dr. Engelberg also offers a customized take-home option which can be used alone for a more gradual result or after your Zoom in-office treatment to maximize and maintain a bright, white smile.

If it is determined that a tooth whitening treatment is not an option for your specific type of tooth discoloration or cosmetic needs, Dr. Engelberg may recommend a cosmetic dental procedure that can provide more permanent results:

  • Tooth bonding: for white spots that are often difficult to treat, a cosmetic tooth bonding may be used to resurface the tooth and provide an even color tone
  • Dental veneers: using porcelain or minimal prep veneers, Dr. Engelberg can make over a dull, discolored smile
  • Dental crowns: for a single stained tooth, a dental crown can be color matched to your remaining teeth for an aesthetic result

Schedule An Appointment

Are you ready for a confidence boost with a bright, white smile? Come in for a consultation with Dr. Engelberg and learn more about your treatment options. Call our office at 847.230.9703 or use our convenient online request form and we will contact you shortly. Arlington Heights Smiles serves many local communities including Long Grove, ILDeerfield, ILNorthbrook, ILBuffalo Grove, ILArlington Heights, IL, and many other local Chicago suburbs.