Teeth Whitening - Stained Teeth

Serving Fresno, Reedley and surrounding areas

Pearly whites gone dull and dingy are one of the most common complaints dentists hear from their patients, and many of us wish are teeth were whiter and brighter. Thanks to the skill and artistry of teeth whitening cosmetic dentists, we no longer have to be embarrassed by our not-so-pearly whites anymore.

Stained teeth are caused by many factors including:

• Tobacco use. Smoking and chewing tobacco is probably the most common cause of stained teeth.
• Coffee, tea and colas.
• Fruit juices and red wine.
• Blueberries, soy sauce and curry.
• Aging. The tooth's enamel, which is the hard outer coating of your teeth, wears thin, allowing the underlying layer of yellowish dentin to show through.
• Antibiotics such as tetracycline (called intrinsic stains because they actually occur on the inside of the tooth).
• Silver-colored fillings can sometimes stain the surrounding tooth.

Dr. Ikuta can correct intrinsic stains through the use of cosmetic procedures such as composite resin bonding and porcelain veneers. Stains from food and drink can often be removed with a professional dental cleaning. Another option is in-office teeth whitening.

Once your stains are professionally removed, you should do the following to keep your teeth their whitest:

• Keep your teeth clean with daily brushing.
• Floss daily because plaque accumulates between teeth and at the gum line and attracts stains like a magnet.
• Don't smoke.
• Be careful regarding beverage intake. Avoid the dark beverages mentioned above as much as possible.
• Use a straw for beverages other than coffee as this will reduce your teeth's exposure to staining beverages.
• Be careful of "stain-removing" toothpastes as they are generally too abrasive. Check with your dentist about which toothpaste to use.

A recent study showed that 80% of Americans ages 18-49 want their teeth to be whiter, and six out of ten people believe a whiter, brighter smile would boost their self-confidence.

If you are one of these people desiring a whiter, brighter smile, please contact Drs. Dennis and Deric Ikuta today to schedule your initial consultation. Drs. Ikuta serve cosmetic dentistry patients Fresno, Visalia, Reedley, Clovis, and Hanford, California.