Tag: teeth whitening

The appearance of brown spots on someone’s teeth is very common. While most people refer to such irregular colored patches on one’s teeth as spots, these brown spots can also appear as brown lines or irregular, mottled areas. 

Brown spots on teeth can range in appearance from yellowish light brown to dark brown. Discoloration, while always astray from white or white-yellow, is never uniform. Sometimes the spots might be closer to the color of chocolate or coffee, and in certain cases, they can look dark brown or nearly black. 

Many people have experienced this discoloration of the teeth, and it is not the fault of the person experiencing discoloration, however, it can indicate damage or tooth disease. Therefore, seeking out a dentist for professional advice is recommended. 

Brown spots might also be referred to as “stains” on teeth. But not to fear, stains are not always permanent when referring to dental care. In many situations, discoloration and brown spots can be treated. 

Causes of Brown Spots on Teeth

There are many factors that can lead to the discoloration of the teeth. 

1. Food/drink consumption. Enjoying dark-colored, sugary, or starchy foods is part of life’s joys. Occasionally, consuming such foods can cause staining of the enamel. Drinking excessive coffee, tea, soda or wine can cause brown spots to appear. Foods high in sugar, such as candy or soda, and foods high in starch, such as potatoes and pasta, can also stain or chip away at the enamel. Dark berries can stain teeth and highly acidic citric juices might also damage the enamel on teeth.
2. Tartar build up. Plaque, or tartar, is a build-up of food particles, bacteria, and saliva in the mouth. While this build up is normal, it is typically reduced through brushing one’s teeth and flossing. These important daily habits prevent excessive tartar build up. When plaque is not continuously removed via oral hygiene, tartar can cause brown spots and discoloration. Controlling tartar buildup is more challenging if someone is having hormonal changes (like in pregnancy), has severe illness, is bedridden, has diabetes, or has AIDS.
3. Tooth decay. When a person is unable to prevent tartar buildup or obtains a tooth infection, tooth decay can occur. This is the process of enamel and tooth breakdown by acid-producing bacteria. Such decay can lead to brown spots and should immediately be evaluated by a dentist to prevent further damage or worse infection. 
4. Fluorosis. Excessive fluoride can sometimes lead to brown spots or streaks on the teeth, especially in children who are under 8 years old. This discoloration is most often mild and treatable. 
5. Tobacco products. All products containing tobacco or nicotine can lead to discoloration of the teeth. Smoking cigarettes, chewing tobacco, using pipe tobacco, or smoking cigars can lead to particle build-up on the teeth that can cause brown spots. 
6. Enamel hypoplasia. Some people naturally have less enamel protection than others, which is a condition called enamel hypoplasia. A deficiency in calcium, premature birth or birth injury, exposure to toxins, exposure to viruses, malnutrition, or genetics can lead to enamel hypoplasia. If a person lacks enamel, it is easier to obtain brown spots.
7. Medications. Occasionally, antibiotics, specifically Tetracycline, can lead to brown spots on the teeth. Antibiotics should never be stopped abruptly and should always be finished to their full course unless an allergy is discovered. Report any medication use to your dentist, and if a medication that could cause brown spots is reported, treatment for tooth discoloration can be arranged. 
8. Aging. As people age, it is natural for teeth enamel to age, too. Such aging can lead to yellowing, and even browning of spots on the teeth. This is a harmless cause but can be treated. 
9. Celiac disease or other gastrointestinal issues. Some gastrointestinal deficiencies and celiac disease can cause tooth decay or damaged enamel, also potentially leading to brown spots on teeth.

Treatments for Brown Spots on Teeth

At-home Treatments

• Over-the-counter whitening strips or sticks. Be careful not to overuse whitening products because they might strip enamel when overused 
• LED Whitening kits that use LED lights to help whiten teeth 
• Daily brushing and flossing of one’s teeth. This is enhanced by using whitening toothpaste and regularly replacing one’s toothbrush
• Brush one’s teeth every few days with a mixture of baking soda and water, on top of regular brushing and flossing routine

Professional Treatments

• Sealing and composite bonding of one’s tooth enamel 
• Dental prophylaxis and dental cleanings
• A dental crown or veneer placement 
• Chairside teeth whitening 
• Power bleaching

The patients at Lifetime Dental Health in Columbus, OH are welcomed at any time for the above-mentioned professional teeth whitening or stain removal treatments.

Reasons to Seek Professional Treatment 

Some patients might choose to seek out professional treatment for the benefits of having experts clean or remove stains from their teeth. The dental team at Lifetime Dental Health enjoys performing this smile-restoring task for our patients.

In other cases, it is important for patients to book an appointment to evaluate brown spots that are accompanied by tooth pain or sensitivity. 

While brown spots are often harmless, if a person develops any of the below symptoms, they should consider seeking out dental care. These symptoms might be a sign of a tooth infection or tooth decay:

• Tooth pain
• Tooth sensitivity, especially to hot or cold foods
• Malodorous or unpleasant breath
• Gum irritation, sensitivity, or pain
• Bleeding gums 
• Canker or cold sores 
• Mouth ulcers
• Dry mouth 

If you would like professional treatment of teeth discoloration, or believe you might have a tooth infection, contact us here at Lifetime Dental Health. Our team will happily assess any brown spots or answer questions about your dental health at a dental clinic appointment.

Many patients want to see a whiter and brighter smile when they look in the mirror. Dingy and stained teeth can hold you back from feeling self-confident.

Whether you have a big event to attend like a school reunion or wedding, or just want a nicer-looking smile for your daily life, teeth whitening is a wonderful way to feel more fabulous.

“Regular” folks see movie stars with dazzling smiles and think they must be the only ones who can look so spectacular. It’s not the case.

Teeth whitening can make nearly anyone’s smile look just as stunning, and here at Lifetime Dental Health, we have in-office and at-home options that can vastly improve your smile.

Here’s what you need to know about teeth whitening and if you may be a good candidate. With some information, you can make a smart choice and see that gleaming smile you have always wanted.

How Do I Know if I’m a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

If your teeth aren’t as white as you’d like them to be, that’s a start. If your teeth are stained, discolored, or just dull, teeth whitening can make them whiter and brighter.

Yellowish, orange-tinged, or even brownish teeth can be improved with teeth whitening. Grayish stains don’t always whiten up as much, but some improvement can be achieved.

Your teeth may not be stained terribly, but as we eat and age, color changes happen. A teeth whitening treatment can turn things around and give you that stellar smile you’ve been missing.

Those who may not be good candidates are people with periodontal disease or eroded enamel. People with sensitive teeth may not be able to tolerate the process. We’ll assess your situation during your consultation.

What Can Cause My Teeth to Stain or Become Discolored?

As mentioned above, time can be a culprit. As we get older, our teeth may start to discolor or lose their shine. But there are other things we do regularly that contribute to staining or discoloration.

What we eat and drink makes a real difference. Some foods and drinks can stain the enamel, and over time, the color won’t get “brushed off” as it seeps in.

Some foods and drinks to avoid or limit to prevent staining and discoloration include dark berries, chocolate, tomato-based soups and sauces, red wine, coffee, tea, and cola. Of course, moderation is key, so if you love your coffee, have a cup every once in a while.

Other things can cause staining or discoloration. Certain medications like tetracycline may have an unwanted effect on the teeth. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing this and to find out if there is something else you can take in its place if this is a concern for you.

Smoking is a big no-no for many reasons, one of them being aesthetic. Tobacco stains the teeth, so if you need another reason to kick the habit, there you go.

Fluorosis can be an issue too. When teeth are overexposed to fluoride early in life as the permanent teeth are forming, discoloration can endure.

Does Lifetime Dental Health Offer In-Office Whitening?

We offer in-office whitening at Lifetime Dental Health, and just one visit can do the trick. Unlike store-bought strips and trays you can get over-the-counter, our teeth whitening procedure works better, more efficiently, and the results last longer. Plus, we ensure your safety and comfort as we get your teeth multiple shades whiter. The process is painless and doesn’t take too long. You’ll walk out of your appointment with a beautiful smile that you’ll want to show everyone!

For those who prefer to do the whitening at home, we can supply you with trays which you can use comfortably in the privacy of your own home. This process will take longer, as you’ll need to wear them for several days (perhaps longer if you have sensitive teeth and can’t keep them on for a long stretch), but the results will be worth the effort.

How Long Will the Results of Teeth Whitening Last?

Every person’s results will be different. Some people have the same level of whiteness for as long as three years. Others see fading after a few months. Generally speaking, those who are diligent about their dental care and don’t consume foods or drinks that are known to stain will see longer-lasting results. When it’s time for a touch-up, you know who to turn to.

Are You Ready to See a Whiter Smile?

If you’re interested in teeth whitening, please feel free to contact us at Lifetime Dental Health so we can set you up with a consultation.

If you have any questions or concerns, we will be more than happy to address them. Your peace of mind and overall confidence in our team is important to us.

We look forward to seeing you soon and giving you a smile that could light up a room.

Most people want to have a bright, white and polished smile, but are not sure how to go about doing so; or they do not think it is possible to have that celebrity smile without paying a celebrity price.

There are several ways people can try to whiten their teeth, such as home whitening strips, toothpaste, whitening kits, and even coconut oil.

Each method varies in price as well as results. Below are more details on how to get the smile you truly want this summer.

What does whitening my teeth involve?

In a nutshell, the process of whitening the teeth consist of removing discoloration and stains from your teeth. The actual details of the process depend on the method you choose. 

After the procedure has been completed, it needs to be repeated to maintain your bright polished smile. The frequency of repeating the whitening procedure depends on the whitening method you have chosen. 

What causes my teeth to be discolored?

There are several reasons your teeth can experience discoloration. Here is a list of the most common causes of teeth discoloration:

• Poor dental hygiene
• Tobacco and other drug use
• Dark colored drinks/foods
• Age
• Medication 

What are some teeth whitening methods?

A few of the most popular options available to help you achieve a whiter smile are whitening strips, whitening toothpaste, coconut oil, whitening kits, and participating in an in-office whitening procedure. 

Whitening strips

Whitening strips can be purchased at just about any pharmacy or store that sells teeth cleaning products. While the instructions vary depending on the brand you are purchasing, generally the package of the whitening strips contains enough disposable strips to last you one or two weeks. 

These strips are attached to your teeth and are worn anywhere from 15-45 minutes a day for one to two weeks. The results can last anywhere from two to four months. The results will depend on if the directions are entirely followed as listed on the package. 

This process is a DIY process and does not require the supervision of a dental professional. 

Whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is known for repairing the enamel on your teeth while you brush. Repairing/strengthening the enamel makes your teeth stronger, which protect against cracks and stains.

This process also requires you to follow the directions as listed on the packaging, because each brand has different requirements. Some whitening toothpaste has a limit on how often you can use it while others will allow you to use it daily.

Coconut oil

Some people want to find more natural ways to whiten their teeth; coconut oil is one of those options. You put a bit of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for about one to two minutes.

 The objective is for the oil to trap the bacteria, so once you spit out the coconut oil, the bacteria is also expelled. The oil itself makes your teeth slick, which makes it harder for stains to stick to your teeth. This method is also known as an oral detoxification method. 

The next two whitening methods are offered at the practice.

Whitening kits

The at-home whitening kits, also known as tray whitening, consist of a take-home whitening procedure that is entirely supervised by your dentist. Our practice will gather your teeth impressions to make a custom mouth guard or tray which will contain the whitening agents needed for the whitening process. The mouth guards can be worn while you are sleeping or awake; they are incredibly lightweight and will not interrupt your day to day actives. So you will be able to whiten your smile while you work, talk, and even exercise!

This method generally takes three to six weeks to complete. You will see a more gradual and controlled change to the color of your teeth with this method.

In-office teeth whitening

This whitening procedure is usually the fastest option available. This procedure is completed by your dentist while in the office, and can often be completed in one sitting. Although the process takes a fraction of the time compared to other methods, it is still completely safe and very effective. Most people do not have to come back for touch ups until sometime between the 8-12 month timeframe.

Many people choose this option over the others because it takes significantly less time to complete and lasts much longer than the other whitening options.

Can I afford to have my teeth whitened?

The simple answer is yes!

It is true, dental care can be expensive, but don’t forget that neglecting your teeth will be more costly in the long run. 

Our practice accepts at least nine different insurance types that will cover or assist in covering most services.

Are you without insurance?

No worries – our practice also offers options for families and individuals without insurance — it is called the “In-House Dental Savings Plan.” For a monthly fee, you receive bi-annual cleanings, doctor exams, and x-rays. On top of that, any treatment, including cosmetic services receive a 15% discount! 

So look no further and wait no more; stop by for a consultation and be on your way to a more confident and radiant smile this summer, without breaking the bank! Call Lifetime Dental Health today at (614) 321-1895.