I have had brown spots on my teeth for ages because of a fever I had as a child. I really wanted to improve the appearance of my teeth. My dentist suggested some teeth whitening, but it hasn't helped. Now she is suggesting we grind off the brown spots. Before I go forward with that do you have any idea who much of the tooth will have to be ground? My dentist was not sure and this idea makes me nervous.
Caitlin
Dear Caitlin,
Teeth Bleaching Trays
While I am sure your dentist has the best of intentions, you need to stop letting her work on this. She is doesn't have a proper understanding of cosmetic dentistry. Teeth whitening is not a good solution for white spots. This is because your teeth are going to be whitened evenly which will make the brown spots stand out even more. This is a basic principle of teeth whitening.
There are two viable solutions for teeth with brown spots: Dental bonding and porcelain veneers. Bonding is less expensive but does not last as long and will need to be periodically replaced. My suggestion is that you see an expert cosmetic dentist. He or she can examine your particular situation and advice you.
Both of these are advanced procedures that require a significant amount of post-doctoral training. Based on what you've described of your treatment thus far, your dentist is not qualified. Don't be tempted to just tell her to do one of the two procedures I mentioned. It's very likely she'll do it without that training in order to try to make you happy. This will end up being an aesthetic disaster for you. You don't have to feel guilty about going somewhere else for cosmetic work. Plenty of patients have one dentist for general work that they have been loyal to for years but go to another for their more advanced cosmetic work.
Disclaimer: This article is general information from Dr. Harveer Kaur and is not a substitute for a dental exam, diagnosis, or treatment. Every mouth is different. If you have a concern about your teeth or gums, call our Ahwatukee office at (480) 283-0733 or our Chandler office at (480) 895-3252 and we will help you sort it out.
Dr. Harveer Kaur, DDS, BDS
Dr. Kaur is the founder of Kokopelli Dentistry, serving patients in Ahwatukee and Chandler, Arizona. She focuses on family and cosmetic dentistry.
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