Having a bright and vibrant smile can often help boost our confidence and pride. However, our teeth can start to lose their natural luster over time. If you have discolored teeth in Arlington Heights, IL, you don’t have to hide your smile or avoid showing your full range of emotions. There are several different cosmetic and restorative options available that could help. After examining your smile and discussing your cosmetic goals, your dentist can help determine which treatment could be right for you.
Treatment Options for Discolored Teeth in Arlington Heights, IL
There are plenty of activities, foods, and drinks in our daily lives that could affect the color of our teeth. While some people may have a duller smile due to genetics, others could suffer staining caused by drinking coffee, smoking, or eating foods high in sugar. The cause of your discoloration could help in preventing further damage. But most treatments can treat discoloration regardless of the original source.
Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can be a great way to boost your smile and reach your desired shade. With teeth whitening, patients can either use an at-home whitening kit or receive in-office whitening. In-office treatment tends to work right away, providing results as soon as possible. At-home whitening typically takes a few weeks to see results. With either method, patients will need to return to the dentist for touch-up appointments. You can often get touch-ups during your regular hygiene visit.
Porcelain Veneers
For patients who want to improve their smiles in a more permanent way, porcelain veneers could be the answer. Veneers are thin shells that fit over your existing teeth. They can be color-matched to your desired shade and they can help fix other cosmetic concerns. With the right care and maintenance, veneers could last up to fifteen years before needing to be replaced.
Dental Bonding
If you have targeted staining or just a few teeth with discoloration, your dentist may recommend dental bonding. Bonding works to address the same cosmetic concerns as veneers. However, bonding uses a composite material similar to a dental filling. This process tends to be quicker and more cost-effective than getting veneers. However, bonding typically only lasts between five and ten years.
How to Prevent Discoloration
While there are treatment options to restore your smile after discoloration, it can also be helpful to prevent further loss of vibrancy. Here are some ways you could help keep your teeth bright in the future:
- Gently rinse your mouth with water after drinking staining liquids (i.e., coffee, tea, soda)
- Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day
- See your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning
- Avoid foods high in sugar that could increase plaque buildup
If you do suffer from discoloration, AH Smiles is here to help. We offer a range of cosmetic and restorative treatment options that could restore the vibrancy of your smile. Call our office today at (847) 230-9703 to schedule a consultation and see which treatment is right for you.