After using over-the-counter whitening products for a few weeks or having a session in the dentist's office, you find your teeth are still just as discolored as they were when you started your teeth whitening journey. Although many whitening products can effectively remove stains when used for long enough, they don't work the same on everyone. Here are a couple of reasons why your teeth didn't whiten.
The Stains are Inside the Teeth
Tooth whitening products are designed to remove stains on the exterior portion of the teeth (i.e. the enamel). Unfortunately, discoloration can occur on the inside of teeth where the chemicals can't reach.
This type of staining happens for a number of reasons. One of the most common is the use of antibiotics (such as tetracycline) at a young age. Another is excessive use of fluoride. Trauma from impacts can cause discoloration inside a tooth from bleeding, and even age can be a factor since the enamel thins over time enough to allow the dentin to show through.
In cases like this, tooth whitening is not the best option to get whiter and brighter teeth. Instead, you may need to opt for a more permanent solution, such as bonding or veneers. A cosmetic dentist can go over a few options that may better suit your particular situation.
Your Teeth are Too Discolored
Another reason why the tooth whitening treatment didn't work like you'd hoped is because your teeth are too stained. This commonly happens with people who smoke and consume teeth-staining substances (e.g. wine, coffee) for years while also failing to engage in proper or adequate oral hygiene. In these cases, over-the-counter products may have little-to-no effect, while in-office procedures only remove a few layers of stains, resulting in no noticeable visual difference.
You can still achieve your desired results with badly stained teeth. However, it will typically require you to undergo several sessions of treatments to achieve it. You will also need to make some lifestyle changes to increase the chances of successfully obtaining whiter teeth and keeping them that way. For instance, you should stop smoking because you're only adding another layer of stains to your teeth each time you do.
A cosmetic dentist can you what it will take to get your teeth as white as you want them (or even if it's possible). Thus, making an appointment to have the professional evaluate your teeth is your first step towards a better-looking smile.
For more information about this issue, contact a local cosmetic dentist, like The Family Dentist.
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