If you’ve ever wondered why so many people opt for teeth whitening, there’s a simple answer: agelessness. Okay, perhaps white teeth won’t make you look infinitely younger, but the process certainly shaves years off of the way you look. Teeth whitening is one of the most often requested services in cosmetic dentistry, and Dr. Brent Engelberg is an expert on brightening up dulled smiles. Most anyone with a healthy mouth can benefit from professional teeth whitening, but it is important to know the type of stains you have.
Outside In
Extrinsic stains are those which develop on the outer surfaces of your tooth enamel. Because of this, they are fairly easy to remove if caught immediately. Tobacco use and consumption of food and beverages that are dark in color (such as coffee, red wine, and blueberries) lead to extrinsic stains. If oral hygiene practices are not diligent, these things can cause long term discoloration of teeth. As we age, teeth are eventually destined to dull, in the same way that hair grays or skin wrinkles up. Brushing your beautiful smile at least twice a day to combat extrinsic stains is a good practice, but eventually, you may need a boost from professional teeth whitening.
Inside Out
Usually, intrinsic stains are caused by certain experimental medications or antibiotics, if they’re not the result of high-impact dental injuries. The discoloration comes from the inside of the teeth. There are also certain antipsychotic drugs, high blood pressure medications, and antihistamines which have been known to lead to intrinsic stains. Stains of this nature don’t generally respond to regular tooth whitening products, so other cosmetic procedures, such as porcelain veneers, can be a way to achieve a bright smile.
ABOUT YOUR SKOKIE DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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