While your smile’s function is one of the most important aspects of your oral health, its appearance plays a significant role as well. Indeed, our grins endure a number of situations that can lead to its degradation in both appearance and health, and it is up to us to ensure we are doing everything we can to protect it. In some situations, however, this may be easier said than done. In today’s blog, your Leawood, KS dentist will take a look at the way stains can tarnish your grin as well as how they can become so deep-set that whitening might not help.
Consistent Wear Throughout Your Life
A variety of factors have significant impact on your smile in multiple ways, including the foods and beverages you consume, the frequency at which you brush and floss, instances of trauma caused by physical injury or accident, substance use or consumption of alcohol, and more.
Indeed, the test of time itself plays a factor, as your teeth will begin to fade and lose their shine. That being said, the prevalence of stains and discrepancies is a natural occurrence, which means most can benefit from a cosmetic enhancement.
Complications Below the Surface
For many individuals, a natural step to take is to seek a teeth-whitening treatment. During this process, a bleaching gel is applied to the surfaces of oral structures and activated with a light. From here, the gel goes to work breaking up and lifting away stains. For many, this process is an effective one that works to brighten your smile up to several shades in addition to removing stains that blemish your appearance.
In some situations, however, whitening may not be able to fully lift away a stain due to its deep-set nature. Take, for instance, a stain you acquire from eating cherries or blackberries. While these fruits contain natural dyes that stain your teeth, they also contain high levels of acidity that actively break down your protective layer of enamel. If enough of this layer is removed, a stain may become much more deep-set than you expect, and a whitening procedure may not be effective.
Utilizing Dental Porcelain
When your smile is riddled with a number of blemishes, or in the event that your stains are too deep for whitening to be effective, porcelain veneers may offer a solution. Comprised of ultra-thin shells of dental porcelain, veneers are crafted to closely mimic the natural shape, texture, and shade of your smile. What’s more, they are secured to the front of your teeth with a dental cement, providing a permanent solution to noticeable concerns.
Enjoy Your Smile Today
Contact Dreem Dentistry in Leawood, KS by calling 913-681-5500 today to learn more about your cosmetic dental options or to schedule your appointment with our team. Blemishes occur throughout the course of life, and we can help correct them and establish an appearance you’ll love.
