noticeable. Some of the brown stains that I had looked better. I am not pleased with the results and told my dentist I want to discontinue treatment. Some of the whitening gel got my teeth so white compared with other stains on my teeth. Sometimes I wonder if I should have left my teeth alone. The discoloration is more noticeable than before. Is there any brand of whitening that is best for fluorosis stains? – Thanks. Kendyl
Kendyl,
Thank you for contacting Cornerstone Dentistry in Sugar Land.
Fluorosis, a tooth enamel defect caused by too much fluoride intake during the first eight years of life, causes permanent damage. The condition can cause teeth to have a spotted appearance with variations in color from bright white to dark brown, depending on the severity of the case. Some fluoridated sources include drinking water, toothpaste, processed foods made with fluoridated water, and fluoride tablets.
How Can You Improve Uneven Color Tooth with Fluorosis Stains?
Porcelain veneers may be an option for concealing fluorosis stains
If you have uneven tooth color from fluorosis stains, brushing and flossing will not help, but cosmetic treatment from an experienced dentist can. Each cosmetic treatment case for stains is unique. An experienced cosmetic dentist can examine your teeth and determine how varying treatment options would affect your teeth.
- Professional teeth bleaching – A cosmetic dentist can lighten brown fluorosis stains with teeth bleaching. Bleaching often leaves variations of white spots in cases of dental fluorosis. A dentist may use this treatment with microabrasion for the best results. You may need multiple in-office treatments and at-home sessions.
- Microabrasion – During this process, a dentist gently sands away the outer layer of tooth enamel. This process takes one or two visits. It often works well with mild cases of fluorosis.
- Composite bonding – Composite dental bonding can be applied over your teeth to conceal mild stains. An experienced cosmetic dentist will customize the bonding for color, characteristics, and translucence to provide a natural look. Chairside bonding, completed in the dentist’s office, can usually be completed in a visit or two. Individual cases vary.
- Porcelain restorations – After lightly preparing your teeth for porcelain veneers, a dentist will bond them to the fronts of your teeth. This treatment can take several visits. Your case will be sent to a ceramist to make customized veneers for you.
Only an experienced cosmetic dentist can answer that question. Schedule consultations with a few experienced cosmetic dentists to discuss your treatment options. Come prepared with questions and compare the information you receive from the dentists to make an informed decision about restoring your smile.
Sugar Land cosmetic dentist Dr. Siny Thomas sponsors this post. Read how Dr. Thomas provides patients with some of the best dental care in Sugar Land.