When it comes to tooth discoloration, there are multiple culprits. When you think about tooth discoloration, your mind may go directly to stains left over from actions like drinking coffee or red wine, or smoking. This is what is referred to as extrinsic discoloration. If your teeth are affected by extrinsic stains, a cosmetic whitening treatment can remedy the effects on your appearance. Intrinsic discoloration, however, is less responsive to whitening agents. This can be a side effect of having taken certain medications, or from a dental injury. Intrinsic stains can be addressed by other cosmetic treatments.

A Cosmetic Whitening Treatment Can Eliminate Stains In Your Enamel

Extrinsic discoloration typically refers to the accumulated stains in your enamel – this can be caused by your diet, or by using products with tobacco in them. The bleaching agents in a whitening treatment will eliminate these stains – unlike over-the-counter products, a professional whitening treatment can even take care of stains that have settled deeper into your enamel.

Treating Intrinsic Discoloration

Conventional whitening gels are not as optimal when you are facing off against intrinsic stains. These stains can reside beneath your enamel, and can have a number of causes. Your dentist can help you determine if your discoloration is treatable with a cosmetic whitening. If you are not a good candidate for a whitening procedure, other cosmetic remedies are available. You can cover up teeth that are discolored by having them fitted with porcelain veneers. Veneers are actually permanently bonded to the front of your teeth, so that you can display a smile that shows a set of perfect teeth. Many people use dental bonding to treat discoloration that has physical trauma as its source.