Teeth Whitening Options - Treatments, Bonding, Veneers
Teeth Whitening Options – Treatments, Bonding, Veneers

If your teeth have stains above the enamel – like those caused by coffee and tea – a simple, in-office teeth whitening service is likely enough to restore a bright and white appearance. Our Cherry Creek cosmetic dentists also offer take-home teeth whitening kits that are very effective at removing topical stains. These may be better for patients who prefer tooth whitening on their own schedule and in the comfort of their own homes. However, neither in-office nor take-home whitening will do much for deeper or more pronounced stains. In fact, these topical bleaching solutions can make matters much, much worse.

Intrinsic Tooth Stains

Deep stains, also known as intrinsic stains, are underneath the enamel. Some topical bleaches, including the in-office teeth whitening offered at DeWitt Dental Associates, can address minor intrinsic stains, but lightening the enamel around these stains may also serve to enhance them. When your tooth stains are underneath the enamel, the better option is often one that covers the tooth completely – and dental bonding offers an affordable and reliable way to do just that.

Dental bonding is applied to the surface of teeth in layers. Each layer is hardened with a special light prior to the next being applied. Each layer is also shaded to match adjacent teeth in color – teeth that can be whitened with a topical solution prior to your dental bonding application.

Once the final layer of dental bonding has been applied, the resin is polished and shaped to perfectly mimic your natural tooth, leaving only the bright and stain-free veneer visible. Inexpensive but not “cheap,” tooth bonding will continue to provide a bright and beautiful appearance for several years, so long as you care for them properly.

Maintaining Dental Bonding Results

The best way to care for dental bonding is to treat it like your natural tooth enamel, Brush with a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste after every meal and floss at least once a day to keep your teeth and your dental bonding attractive and clean. And make sure you continue to visit our Cherry Creek dentists every six months for cleanings and examinations. During these visits we will evaluate the appearance of your dental bonding and any other restorations you may have, making adjustments and corrections as needed. Catching minor issues and providing swift treatment is one of the best ways to keep your smile bright and beautiful for years to come.

Is Dental Bonding Right for You?

In addition to tooth staining, dental bonding can be used for:

  • Rebuilding teeth that are broken
  • Protecting teeth that are chipped or cracked
  • Strengthening teeth with significant decay or large fillings
  • Closing small gaps in between teeth
  • Normalizing tooth shapes and sizes

Dental bonding is a cost-effective, durable, and reliable way to address tooth staining and other common cosmetic issues. Requiring very little tooth preparation and able to be completed during a single office visit, tooth bonding is also less invasive and much faster than some cosmetic dentistry options that may offer similar results. During your initial consultation, we can discuss all of your tooth whitening options to help you determine which will be best for your needs.

If you live in Denver or surrounding communities and are looking for a solution for your stained teeth, call DeWitt Dental Associates at 303-321-5656 to schedule a consultation today. We serve Littleton, Englewood, Highlands Ranch, and nearby areas of Colorado from our Cherry Creek location.