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One of the easiest ways to update your overall appearance is to start with your smile. Dull, yellow teeth can make you look years older than you are. In a lot of situations and for a lot of people, a whitening treatment can make a difference. Whether over-the-counter or at your dentist’s office, a whitening treatment can help a lot of people make their smile sparkle. However, there are a lot of situations where whitening your teeth may not be enough to make a change in the look of your smile. Perhaps you have already tried a lot of whitening treatments to brighten your smile with no change in appearance. If you feel stuck with stained or discolored teeth, it may be time to talk to your dentist about what other cosmetic dentistry options may be appropriate for you. 

Why Whitening May Not Work

The reason that most common stains can be erased easily with a whitening treatment is because they only effect the surface of your teeth. Whitening gel breaks up the buildup that has accumulated on your tooth enamel. This allows for your healthy, beautiful tooth structure to shine through. However, there are types of tooth discoloration that can develop underneath your semi-translucent enamel. It can be caused by tooth trauma, internal bleeding, certain medications, and more. If discoloration stems from the inside, an outer layer solution, like teeth-whitening, will not work.

Other Effective Solutions

Once your dentist determines that your smile is impacted by internal (also known as intrinsic) staining, then you may discuss other options to get you a brighter smile. If just one or a few teeth is affected by the internal discoloration, cosmetic bonding may be the most efficient solution. However, porcelain veneers can be a great option if your whole smile needs an update.

We can help you determine the best way to brighten your smile

Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris of Mansfield Dental Associates can help you get a bright smile. If you would like to schedule a consultation, call 817-473-6227. We proudly welcome patients from Mansfield, TX and the surrounding areas, including South Arlington, Kennedale, Southeast Ft. Worth, Alvarado, Midlothian, and more.