When Your Body Attacks Your Teeth: Combating Autoimmune Dental Problems

Dental Treatments For Intrinsic Discoloration Of The Teeth

Dentists treat various types of dental staining with different treatments. For example, superficial teeth staining, also called extrinsic staining, is commonly treated with laser bleaching. Conversely, dental discoloration or deep stains, are usually not responsive to laser bleaching.

Deep stains and permanent tooth discoloration are typically caused by certain medications, enamel erosion, traumatic dental injuries, and certain congenital disorders. For example, acid erosion can thin your dental enamel which can make it transparent instead of opaque. When this happens, your dentin may be visible. Dentin is dark yellow and when it shows through your enamel, your teeth may look stained.

Here are some effective ways dentists treat intrinsic discoloration of the teeth. 

Composite Resin Bonding

Dentists often use composite resin bonding to conceal deep-set discolorations of the teeth. Unlike laser bleaching or at-home teeth whitening products, composite resin bonding does not eliminate the stains on your teeth. During the bonding process, your dentist will apply the composite mixture to the affected teeth and then they will cure it with a special ultraviolet light so that the material hardens, or "cures."

Bonded teeth look natural because your dentist matches the composite resin color to the color of your natural teeth. Bonded teeth are cared for in the same way that you care for your natural teeth and the bonding can last for years.

Thin Veneer Jackets

Another treatment option dentists offer patients for intrinsic discoloration of the teeth is veneer jackets, also called porcelain veneers. Like composite resin bonding, veneers do not eliminate stains and discoloration, they simply hide them. The veneers are thin shells that fit over the front of your natural teeth to hide imperfections. Not only do porcelain veneers hide dental staining, but they can also conceal other imperfections such as chips in the teeth.

Before your veneers are placed on your teeth, your dentist will remove a small portion of your dental enamel so that the veneers fit properly. If a thin layer of your enamel is not removed before your veneers are applied, your tooth may look unnaturally thick. The veneer process takes a few dental office visits because not only do your natural teeth have to be prepared for the veneers, but the dental laboratory has to make the veneers.

If you have intrinsic discoloration of your teeth or other dental imperfections, make an appointment with your dentist. After they examine your oral cavity, they will recommend the best treatment option for your individual needs so that you can have a more attractive-looking smile


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