Stained or discolored teeth can affect your confidence every day. You might avoid smiling in photos, feel self-conscious at work, or simply want a brighter smile. Whatever your reason, tooth discoloration is one of the most common dental concerns we treat at Dupont Dental in Washington, DC.
Dr. Christopher Banks brings an artistic eye and cosmetic expertise to every smile makeover. As an American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry dentist, he has the training and experience to recommend the right treatment for you. He can help you tackle tooth stains and to deliver natural results.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Before recommending treatment, Dr. Banks identifies what’s causing your discoloration. The cause determines which treatment will work best for you.
Surface Stains (Extrinsic)
Surface stains are the most common type of tooth discoloration. They develop on the outside of your teeth from the foods and drinks you consume every day. Coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and dark berries are among the biggest culprits.
Tobacco use, both smoking and chewing, also causes deep surface staining that’s difficult to remove with brushing alone. The good news is that surface stains respond very well to professional whitening treatments.
Internal Stains (Intrinsic)
Internal stains develop inside the tooth rather than on its surface. They can be caused by certain antibiotics taken during childhood, too much fluoride exposure while teeth were still developing, a tooth injury, or untreated decay. Because these stains are deeper in the tooth, whitening treatments can’t always reach them effectively. Veneers or bonding are usually the best way to cover these stains.
Age-Related Discoloration
As we get older, the outer layer of enamel on our teeth naturally wears down. This allows the yellowish dentin layer underneath to show through more visibly. Age-related discoloration is a combination of both surface staining and internal changes. We often recommend whitening and cosmetic treatment for these stains.
Teeth Whitening Options at Dupont Dental
Professional teeth whitening is the fastest and most effective way to brighten surface stains. At Dupont Dental, we offer two professional whitening systems so you can choose the approach that fits your lifestyle and goals.
Zoom! In-Office Whitening
Zoom! is one of the most popular professional whitening systems available, and for good reason. In just one appointment, Zoom! can lighten your teeth by several shades. The treatment uses a powerful whitening gel activated by a special light to break up stains effectively. Most patients leave their appointment with dramatically brighter teeth the same day.
Zoom! is an excellent option for upcoming events, job interviews, weddings, or when you simply want fast results. The entire appointment takes about 90 minutes, and the results can last for a year or more with proper maintenance.
Opalescence Take-Home Whitening
If you prefer to whiten at your own pace, Opalescence take-home whitening offers professional-strength results in the comfort of your own home. To begin treatment, we create custom-fitted trays based on impressions of your teeth. These trays ensure the whitening gel covers every surface evenly.
Opalescence gel is available in different strengths and wear times, so you can choose a schedule that works for you. Some patients wear their trays for 30 minutes a day, while others prefer an overnight treatment. Most patients see results within one to two weeks.
Many patients choose to start with Zoom! in-office for immediate results, then use Opalescence trays at home. Dr. Banks will help you find the right approach or combination that makes the most sense for you.
Porcelain Veneers
When stains are too deep for whitening to fix, porcelain veneers offer a longer-lasting and more dramatic solution. Veneers are ultra-thin porcelain shells that we bond to the front surface of your teeth. They cover stains to create a more uniform smile.
Veneers are particularly effective for intrinsic stains or cosmetic concerns like chips, gaps, or uneven tooth size. Dr. Banks designs every set of veneers with your facial structure, skin tone, and natural tooth color in mind. The result is a smile that looks genuinely natural rather than artificially bright. Veneers typically last 10 to 15 years with proper care.
Dental Bonding
Teeth bonding is a quick and affordable option for patients with staining on specific teeth. Dr. Banks applies tooth-colored composite resin directly to the affected teeth. Then he shapes and polishes it to blend with your surrounding teeth.
Bonding can dramatically improve the appearance of stained or discolored teeth. You can get treatment in a single visit without removing any natural tooth structure.
Discolored Teeth FAQs
Will whitening work on my crowns or veneers?
Whitening gel only works on natural tooth enamel. It won’t change the color of crowns, veneers, or bonding. If you have restorations, Dr. Banks will factor this into your treatment plan. He’ll ensure your results look consistent.
How long do whitening results last?
With proper care, Zoom! results can last one to two years. Using Opalescence take-home trays for occasional touch-ups can extend your results.
Is professional whitening safe?
Yes. Professional whitening performed or supervised by a dentist is safe and effective. Dr. Banks evaluates your teeth before treatment. He’ll make sure whitening is right for you and will minimize any risk of sensitivity.
What if whitening doesn’t fully remove my stains?
If your stains don’t respond fully to whitening, veneers or bonding can cover them completely. During your consultation, Dr. Banks will assess your staining and recommend the most effective solution for your specific situation.
Schedule Your Smile Consultation
You deserve a confident smile. Treat tooth discoloration in Washington, DC, today. Call Dr. Banks at (202) 946-4720 or request an appointment online. We’re proud to serve patients from Capitol Hill, Georgetown, Adams Morgan, and Logan Circle.