Is It Difficult to Get Used to Dentures?
If you just got dentures, or you’re considering them as a solution, you might be wondering how long it takes to get used to them and if they’ll be uncomfortable. Find out the answers in this month’s blog.
I Used to Have Such White Teeth: What Happened?
Unfortunately, even with great oral hygiene, your teeth can still darken and yellow over time. Carol Scuro, DMD, Bradford Emery, DMD, and Nicholas Emery, DDS, at Emery & Scuro DMD, PC in Rochester, New York, explain why in this month’s blog.
Causes of tooth discoloration
Several things can cause your teeth to turn yellow and look gray and dingy, including:
Enamel wears down
The outer layer of your teeth is called enamel and it’s what gives them their bright, white appearance. Over time, enamel naturally wears down, and gets thin, and the yellowish layer underneath, called dentin, starts to peek through.
Stains build up
While your enamel is wearing down, stains are building up. Think of the hundreds (or thousands!) of cups of coffee, tea, sodas, and red wine you’ve had through the years. They gradually take a toll on your smile.
Poor oral hygiene
Stains congregate around plaque and tartar. Regular brushing and flossing keep plaque and tartar from accumulating. We offer comprehensive preventive care to help you stay on top of cavities and gum disease, and professional dental cleanings to remove bacteria and plaque.
Smoking
For many reasons, you need to quit smoking. The main one is that it wreaks havoc on your teeth, breath, and overall oral health. Smokers are at higher risk for developing gum disease, a leading cause of tooth loss.
What are the treatment options for discolored teeth?
Depending on the root cause of your discolored teeth, we may recommend one or a combination of these treatment options:
Teeth whitening
Our medical-grade whitening solutions go to work fast to lighten and brighten your teeth. We offer two convenient options:
In-office teeth whitening can brighten your teeth by up to 10 shades in just one visit. During your appointment at Emery & Scuro DMD, PC, your dentist protects your gums and tongue with a special barrier to keep everything comfortable and safe.
Next, they apply a professional-strength whitening gel to the surface of your teeth. After letting it work for about 15 minutes, they’ll direct a special light at your teeth to activate the whitening agents. This light triggers a chemical reaction that breaks down and removes stains.
Take-home whitening trays provide a convenient way to brighten your smile when it’s most convenient for you. We custom-fit plastic trays to match the unique shape of your teeth. We’ll give you instructions and a demo. You'll fill them with a professional-grade whitening gel and wear them for about 15-20 minutes a day. In 2-4 weeks, you have a lighter, brighter smile.
Porcelain veneers
If your teeth are especially stained, we may recommend dental veneers. They’re thin shells made of porcelain that we affix to the front of your teeth. They instantly transform your smile.
If you’re unhappy with your not-so-bright smile, don’t worry. With the right treatment, you can restore your teeth’s natural whiteness. Call 585-684-8423 to learn more or request an appointment online today.
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