When you have discolored teeth, you may spend a lot of your time trying to hide them. We believe you should have a smile you’re excited to show off. Dr. Emily Ann Reece of ReedyCreek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, a dentist in Cary, NC, highlights the options for treating discolored teeth at our dental office.
Professional Teeth Whitening
When you think about getting a whiter smile from your dentist, this is probably what you think of. Professional teeth whitening carries many benefits compared to over the counter options. Since they’re one size, you risk the bleaching agent coming into contact with your soft tissue, causing sensitivity. They also tend to provide blotchy and uneven results.
We offer teeth whitening services in our office. You can get teeth up to eight shades whiter in under an hour of treatment. Your gums and soft tissues will be protected against the bleaching agent. A whitening gel is then gently applied to your teeth. It’s activated with a special light that allows it to penetrate the enamel, getting to deep stains in the teeth.
A consultation with Dr. Reece allows her to examine your smile and determine how many whitening treatments can help you meet your cosmetic goals. Some may be set after one treatment, while others may need multiple sessions to obtain their ideal results.
Porcelain Veneers
Not all stains are responsive to traditional whitening techniques. Porcelain veneers provide an ideal alternative for staining caused by things like genetics and medication. Veneers are made of thin shells of dental ceramic that go over the front and sides of the tooth. The material is designed to be both durable and stain-resistant, providing a long-lasting solution.
To get veneers, a small amount of tooth structure is first removed. We want to make sure the veneers will lay flat and flush with the rest of your smile. Impressions are taken so that the veneers can be custom-made. When they’re ready, we’ll fit them to your teeth in the office. Small adjustments will be made. If you’re satisfied, they’ll be permanently bonded to your teeth.
Dental Bonding
If you’re looking for an economical solution and aren’t ready for a permanent restoration, dental bonding may be your best option. The bonding material is made of a composite resin that’s malleable, allowing it to treat cosmetic cracks and chips while it’s giving you a whiter smile. The material can also be color-matched to the shade you desire.
To start, a minimal amount of tooth structure is removed so that the material can adhere to the tooth properly. The resin is molded into the shape of your natural tooth. Once you’re happy with it, a special light is used to cure and harden the material. It’s then polished so that it matches the natural sheen of the rest of your teeth.
Whitening Solutions at Your Cary, North Carolina Dentist
It’s time to get a smile that you’re ready to show off. Call us or schedule an appointment online!