Find the Right Treatment for Teeth Stains

Stained teeth are a common problem. Everything from the food you eat, to medications you may take, to your age can affect the color of your teeth. Fortunately, there are several good solutions that can make dull teeth look dazzling again. Our dentists can help you find the right treatment for teeth stains.

There are several key factors to consider when choosing a stain treatment. Among them: the severity and nature of your staining, the condition of your teeth, your lifestyle, and your budget.

To learn more about your options and choose the best one for you, schedule a consultation with one of our dentists. Call 605-250-4651 (Minnesota Ave) 605-638-9986 (Eastside) today to visit Sioux Falls Smiles. In the meantime, we’ve provided an overview of your three whitening options: professional teeth whitening, dental veneers, and dental bonding. 

What Are Your Options for Dental Stains?

We can supply you with professional-strength whitening gel to use at home. Since it has a higher concentration of ingredients like hydrogen peroxide, you’ll get better results than you can from store-bought products. Whitening may not work for severe stains, though, or if your teeth look discolored because your enamel is thinning. When enamel thins, your teeth can take on a yellow appearance that won’t come out with a whitening gel. 

Another option is veneers. These thin, custom-made restorations fit snugly over the front of your teeth. They are made of material that closely resembles tooth enamel, usually porcelain. It typically requires two to three visits to get veneers. Once they’re in place though, they should last many years with proper care. 

For a bonding treatment, your dentist applies thin layers of tooth-colored composite resin to your teeth. This is the same material that is used for filings. The bonding is hardened with a special light and then polished. Bonding costs less than veneers. However, it won’t last as long, and it’s more susceptible to chipping and staining. 

Which One Will Work Best for You?

Each of these treatments has its pros and cons. We’ve mentioned some here. Again, the best way to determine which one will work best for your smile is with a consultation. 

  • Teeth Whitening – This is the simplest and least expensive option. You simply apply the professional-strength gel to your teeth at home until you attain the level of whiteness you desire. However, you may not come out ahead on cost over time. Whitening won’t last as long as bonding or veneers. You’ll need to repeat treatments periodically to keep your teeth white. You can maintain your results longer by avoiding staining foods and drinks – or at least rinsing your mouth with water after consuming them.
  • Dental Veneers – Of your three options, this one will last the longest. In addition, it’s more versatile. In addition to the color of your teeth, veneers can also change their size and shape. They can hide flaws like chips, cracks, and small gaps. They also strengthen your teeth. It will take at least two visits to get veneers. In most cases, your dentist will have to remove some enamel from your teeth before applying the veneers. So if a veneer is removed, you’ll need a new veneer or another restoration like a crown. 
  • Tooth Bonding – This is less invasive than veneers. Your dentist simply roughens the surface of your teeth, rather than removing enamel from them. Depending on how many teeth are involved, you can often complete the treatment in one visit to our office. It is more expensive than whitening, but less costly than veneers. It also falls in the middle of the two in terms of longevity. 

Want to find a solution for teeth stains? Call Sioux Falls Smiles at 605-250-4651 (Minnesota Ave) 605-638-9986 (Eastside) to schedule a consultation in Sioux Falls, SD. You can also schedule online.