My Teeth Are Stained, Now What?
Are you concerned about the color of your teeth? You’re not alone. At Solid Bite our experienced team of Melbourne dentists regularly helps patients achieve brighter, more confident smiles. Understanding the causes of tooth discoloration and knowing your treatment options is the first step toward a more radiant smile.
Learn more about how we can handle tooth discoloration at our Brevard County dental practice by calling 321.259.8000.
Understanding Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is a common dental concern that can significantly impact your confidence and overall appearance. As leading dental professionals in Brevard County, Dr. Lee Sheldon, Dr. Matt Sheldon, and Dr. Michel Furtado have extensive experience in treating various types of tooth discoloration.
Extrinsic Discoloration
Extrinsic discoloration affects the outer layer of your teeth (enamel) and is typically caused by external factors such as:
- Regular consumption of staining beverages (coffee, tea, red wine)
- Tobacco use (smoking or chewing)
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Certain foods with strong pigments (berries, tomato-based sauces)
- Some medications and mouthwashes
Intrinsic Discoloration
Intrinsic discoloration occurs within the tooth structure itself and can be more challenging to treat. Common causes include:
- Excessive fluoride exposure during tooth development
- Trauma to developing teeth in childhood
- Certain medications, particularly tetracycline antibiotics
- Age-related changes to the dentin
- Root canal treatments
- Genetic factors
Professional Treatment Options at Solid Bite
At Solid Bite, we offer several effective treatment options for tooth discoloration. Our dentists will work with you to determine the most appropriate treatment based on the type and severity of your discoloration, as well as your overall oral health and aesthetic goals.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening is often the first line of treatment for extrinsic staining. At our Melbourne office, we offer both in-office and take-home whitening options:
In-Office Whitening:
- Provides immediate results
- Professionally supervised for safety
- Typically achieves several shades lighter in one visit
- Perfect for special occasions or quick results
Take-Home Whitening Kits:
- Custom-fitted trays for optimal results
- Professional-grade whitening agents
- Flexible treatment schedule
- Gradual, natural-looking results
Dental Bonding
For isolated areas of discoloration or minor imperfections, dental bonding can be an excellent solution. This procedure involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to the affected teeth, which is then shaped and polished to match your natural teeth.
Porcelain Veneers
For more severe or resistant cases of discoloration, porcelain veneers offer a long-lasting solution. These thin shells of medical-grade ceramic are custom-crafted to fit over your existing teeth, providing:
- Natural-looking results
- Resistance to future staining
- Protection for the underlying tooth structure
- The ability to correct multiple aesthetic concerns simultaneously
Dental Crowns
For teeth with severe discoloration, especially those that have undergone root canal treatment or have significant structural damage, dental crowns offer a comprehensive solution. At Solid Bite, we provide high-quality dental crowns that not only address discoloration but also protect and strengthen your teeth.
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of your tooth, offering several benefits:
- Complete coverage of severe discoloration
- Protection for weakened or damaged teeth
- Natural appearance that matches surrounding teeth
- Long-lasting results (10-15 years with proper care)
- Resistance to future staining
Many patients find that dental crowns are an ideal solution when dealing with:
- Deep intrinsic staining that doesn’t respond to whitening
- Teeth that have become darkened after root canal therapy
- Severely discolored teeth that also have structural issues
- Cases where multiple aesthetic and functional concerns need to be addressed simultaneously
Prevention and Maintenance
Maintaining your bright smile after treatment is crucial. Our dental team recommends:
- Regular dental cleanings and check-ups
- Proper at-home oral hygiene practices
- Using a straw when consuming staining beverages
- Limiting exposure to staining foods and beverages
- Quitting tobacco use
- Following post-treatment care instructions
Why Choose Solid Bite for Your Smile Enhancement?
When it comes to addressing tooth discoloration, experience matters. Our team of skilled dentists – Drs. Sheldon and Dr. Furtado – brings decades of combined experience in cosmetic dentistry to serve our Melbourne community and surrounding areas.
We pride ourselves on:
- Utilizing the latest dental technology and techniques
- Providing personalized treatment plans
- Offering comfortable, stress-free dental experiences
- Maintaining the highest standards of dental care
Take the First Step Toward a Brighter Smile
Don’t let tooth discoloration affect your confidence any longer. Whether you’re in Melbourne, Sharpes, Titusville, Viera, or Malabar, FL, our team at Solid Bite is here to help you achieve the bright, beautiful smile you deserve.
Contact us today at 321.259.8000 to schedule your consultation. Our friendly staff will be happy to discuss your concerns and help you understand your treatment options. We accept most major insurance plans and offer flexible financing options to make your smile enhancement journey as accessible as possible.
Remember, a brighter smile isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about feeling confident in every aspect of your life. Let Solid Bite be your partner in achieving and maintaining that confidence through expert dental care and personalized treatment solutions.