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1394 South Route 12 Fox Lake, IL 60020

Discolored Teeth Fox Lake, IL

Even the most avid brusher and flosser can experience discolored teeth. A variety of factors can stain, darken, and yellow our teeth. Sometimes the only way to restore their brightness is through teeth whitening. Infinity Dental of Fox Lake offers in-office whitening to diminish the discoloration of your teeth and enhance your smile in just one visit.

What causes discolored teeth?

  • Foods and drinks: coffee, teas, colas, and wines
  • Tobacco: Smoking or other tobacco products
  • Poor dental hygiene: Neglecting to brush or floss
  • Disease: For example, head and neck radiation, chemotherapy, and certain infections contracted during pregnancy
  • Age: As you age naturally, your teeth pick up stains and deteriorate over time
  • Environment: Excessive fluoride levels in water can have a negative effect on the color of your teeth

The key to the best possible result is a dental exam with Dr. Prendergast. He will determine both the underlying cause of your tooth discoloration and appropriate treatment options. Tooth whitening may not be successful for certain types of tooth stains. For those caused by certain medical conditions, medications, or genetics, we can address your needs with cosmetic dental treatments.

teeth whitening in Fox Lake IL

Treatment for Discolored Teeth

It is relatively easy to bleach or whiten teeth to restore them to a brighter, younger-looking appearance. Depending on your needs and goals, our dentist may recommend one or a combination of the following.

Deep Bleaching

With deep bleaching, you can achieve significant teeth whitening results. This method is best suited for patients who have very dark teeth or tetracycline staining. Deep bleaching uses a combination of two to three in-office bleaching treatments along with take-home treatments. Oxygen from the deep bleaching gel is absorbed deeply into the tooth, dissolving stains with long-lasting results.

Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening is fast and highly effective. Infinity Dental offers chair-side laser teeth whitening to deliver a significantly whiter smile in less than an hour. Laser teeth whitening is suitable for most patients who have mild to moderate stains.

Take-Home Whitening

Take-home professional teeth whitening is both affordable and convenient. We will create a custom teeth whitening tray and supply you with professional-strength bleaching gel. At-home teeth whitening is also great for touch-ups, to maintain your white smile after any whitening treatment.

Cosmetic Bonding

In some cases, your dentist may choose cosmetic bonding to improve the appearance of a discolored tooth. This is a simple procedure that involves the application of a tooth-colored resin to the affected tooth. There is no preparation needed for bonding and it is among the easiest and least expensive ways to improve your smile.

Porcelain Veneers

For those patients that only have one or two oddly discolored teeth, porcelain veneers may be the solution for you. Veneers can drastically change the color and shape of teeth. They can cover deep stains and white spots on your teeth. Avoid paying for a full teeth whitening procedure with veneers.

Discolored Teeth FAQs

Can discolored teeth be whitened?

Any natural teeth and enamel can be whitened. There are different methods of teeth whitening depending on what your dentist thinks may be the cause of the issue. As long as your teeth are natural and not artificial, they can be whitened.

How do you get rid of tooth discoloration naturally?

In some cases, patients can get rid of tooth discoloration from stains caused by foods, drinks, or smoking. The best way to make your teeth appear whiter from home is to gently and periodically brush them with baking soda. Another common method is to rinse with hydrogen peroxide and water.

Will rinsing with peroxide to whiten harm my teeth?

Patients should be careful when rinsing with hydrogen peroxide in an attempt to whiten their teeth. If concentrations are too high or it is used too frequently, it may cause harm to your teeth. You can accidentally cause expensive, long-term damage. If you choose to whiten your teeth with peroxide, be careful and do so in moderation.

Why does smoking discolor teeth?

The nicotine and tar contained in tobacco can easily yellow teeth. These substances stick to the tooth enamel to change the color of your teeth. If you smoke, vape, or use other tobacco products, you will likely experience tooth discoloration.

What medications discolor teeth?

Multiple common medications can discolor teeth: antipsychotics, antihistamines, and antidepressants. We take medications into account when addressing discolored teeth.

Can vitamin deficiencies discolor teeth?

If you do not have enough Vitamin D, you may notice brown spots on your teeth. Vitamin D helps absorb calcium and mineralize the tooth enamel. This vitamin ensures that your teeth stay strong. A lack of Vitamin D can also increase the risk of gum disease.

Schedule a Dental Exam & Teeth Whitening Consultation

If you are concerned about discolored teeth, contact Infinity Dental of Fox Lake for a consultation. We can create a customized plan to help you achieve a whiter, brighter, younger-looking smile. Give us a call at (847) 447-6637 today.