Teeth discolour due to stains on the surface or by internal changes.Discoloration can be due to :
External discoloration – the outer layer of the tooth (the enamel) is stained due to coffee,wine,cola or other drinks,foods or smoking.
Internal discoloration –the inner structure of the tooth darkens or get yellow tint if:
You had too much fluride during early childhood.
Your mother used tetracycline antibiotics during pregnancy.
You used tetracycline antibotics when you were 8 years old or younger.
You had trauma that affected a tooth when you were a young child
You were born with a rare condition called dentinogenesis imperfecta. This causes gray, amber or purple discolorations
Age related discoloration –Over time teeth naturally yellow as the enamel gets thinner with age.
Diagnosis
No special tests are needed. A dentist can diagnose tooth discoloration by looking at the teeth.
Solution
Tooth discoloration can be removed with professional cleaning. In some cases, if the discoloration is severe, veeneering may be required to cover it.
What is veneering?
Dental veneers (sometime called porcelain veneers or dental porcelain laminates) are wafer thin, custom made shells of tooth colored materials designed to cover the front surface of teeth to improve appearance. This shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size or length.
Dental veneers can be made from porelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. Resin veneers are thinner and require removal of less of the tooth surface before placement. You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with your DENTIST.
Procedure for getting a veneer
Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist – one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers. One tooth or many teeth can simultaneously undergo the veneering process described below.
Diagnosis and treatment planning-during the first visit your dentist will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you. X-ray and impression of your mouth and teeth may be taken.
Preparation – to prepare a tooth for a veneer,your dentist will remove about 0.5 to 1.0 millimeter of enamel from the tooth surface after giving a local anaesthetic to numb the area. Next, your dentist will make a model or impression of your tooth.
Bonding – Your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched-which roughens the tooth to allow for strong bonding process . A special cement is applied to the veneer and the veneer is then placed on your tooth. Once properly positioned on the tooth, your dentist will apply a light beam to the dental veneer, which causes it to harden quickly.The final steps involve evaluating your bite and making any final adjustments in the veneer. Your dentist may ask you to return for follow up visit in couple of weeks to check how your gums are responding to the presence of your veneer and to examine the veneer’s placement .
Types of Veneer procedures
Your cosmetic dentist will recommend the most appropriate tooth veneers procedure for you.
Composite veneer procedure – Composite (direct)veneers usually need a single visit to your cosmetic dentist. the procedure is an application of bond and enamel directly to the tooth’s surface.
Porcelain veneers Procedure –Porcelain(indirect)veneers usually requires two visits to the dentist and require a dental laboratory to create a final tooth restoration piece.
Pros and Cons of a veneer
Advanatages –Porcelain veneers create new smiles and smile makeovers in a very short period of time. Typically veneers are difficult to stain,making veneers a very popular solution for many people. Strong and very durable, veneers last from ten to fifteen years and are in colors that will brighten dark teeth without the worry of them changing color. Veneers don’t require extensive shaping procedures and can actually strengthen your tooth. There is no additional maintenance, other than a follow-up visit to your cosmetic dentist and proper brushing and flossing on a daily basis.
Disadvanatage – Veneers are permanent. They may temporarily cause your teeth to become more sensitive because of the removal of enamel. Some people can experience a difference in speech, usually pronouncing experience a difference in speech, Usually pronouncing “S” and “F” sounds.
