Causes
There are some reasons that teeth become stained or yellowed. The culprits for tooth discoloration are as follows:

• Tobacco – Smoking or chewing on them stains teeth.
• Foods and drinks – Coffee, colas, wines, tea, berries, sauces, and other items that you consume can damage your tooth color.
• Medications – Certain medications are known to discolor teeth, sometimes causing severe stains that are difficult to remove.
• Poor oral hygiene – Improper brushing and flossing is key in removing plaque and stains.
• Age – Aging wears away tooth enamel and reveals the yellowish dentin underneath.
• Disease – Some diseases can harm tooth enamel and trigger discoloration. Certain medical treatments like radiation and chemotherapy can also discolor teeth.
• Environment – Excessive fluoride exposure can stain teeth; this is known as fluorosis.
• Genetics – Some people are more prone to tooth discoloration than others.
• Trauma – A hit to the maxillofacial region can damage the tooth and cause discoloration due to pulp necrosis.

Prevention
Lifestyle changes can prevent tooth discoloration, such as avoiding foods and drinks known to stain teeth. Improving oral hygiene is another step in the right direction, including regular brushing and flossing and consistent professional teeth cleanings.

Treatment
The options vary depending on the severity of discoloration and goals of the patient. Whitening methods include over-the-counter whitening products, at-home whitening kits provided by the dentist, professional in-office whitening treatments, bonding, and dental veneers. These tools cater to various needs according to the patient’s concerns.

Take the first step towards optimal oral hygiene. Reserve your dental appointment at our Fresno dental office now and experience personalized care.

At-home teeth whitening
There are a variety of products you can try yourself to whiten your teeth. These treatments usually take a few weeks of use before your teeth are noticeably whiter. Also, remember that most of these products cannot achieve as high of a level of whiteness as those performed professionally.

• Kits – Whitening kits contain a tooth mold and gel to place inside the mold. You wear the filled mold for about 30 minutes for 2-3 weeks.
• Strips – Thin whitening strips are coated with peroxide gel, and then you apply the strips directly to your teeth for 30 minutes for 14 days. Results become evident in a few days and last about four months.
• Toothpaste – Brushing with whitening toothpaste must be done consistently, and you must be patient because reaching the desired outcome usually takes a couple of months.

Professional teeth whitening
Treatments done by a dentist are the fastest and most effective way to regain your pearly whites.

• Laser whitening – The dentist coats your teeth with a hydrogen peroxide solution and then shines a laser light on them. This oxidizes the stains and gives them a whiter appearance.
• Porcelain veneers – If your teeth are severely stained and other whitening techniques haven’t done the trick, your dentist may recommend porcelain veneers. These shells permanently cover your teeth and provide a beautiful smile.

Teeth Whitening dentist in Fresno