Destin Dentist Discusses Causes For Tricky Stains On Teeth

    DESTIN, FL, October 16, 2013 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Dr. Richard Corley, dentist in Destin, FL, explains why over the counter whitening strips won't rid some patients of a darkened tooth.

"If a tooth won't respond to store bought whitening products, the problem might not be the outside of the tooth. Some teeth have intrinsic discoloration, which means the inside of the tooth is discolored. And different dental problems cause internal stains," said Dr. Corley, Destin cosmetic dentist.

Pre- and post-eruptive staining causes intrinsic discoloration, and pre-eruptive staining occurs when teeth are still in the developmental stage. Two common causes are excessive intake of fluoride (a condition called fluorosis) and exposure to tetracycline (antibiotic) at a young age. Patients will see tiny streaks or spots in the enamel. The severity of the stains depends upon a patients' oral health and the duration of exposure to fluoride or tetracycline.

If patients notice a stubborn stain on a fully developed tooth, it might be a post-eruptive stain. Most post-eruptive stains result from trauma to a tooth. Now, this doesn't mean all face injuries cause intrinsic tooth discoloration. However, in some cases, a tooth gets damaged, and bleeding inside the tooth might discolor it.

If the trauma is severe, the tooth can decay or become infected. A damaged pulp (soft area within the tooth) produces bacteria that build up within the pulp chamber. Thus, the bacteria and decay can spread the infection to the tooth's roots where an abscess (pus-filled pocket) forms. At this point, a root canal procedure is in order. The tooth is sealed, and patients might notice the tooth is a little darker.

In rare cases, extrinsic stains can become internalized. People who have enamel defects or cracks or dentin (located beneath enamel) damage run the risk of intrinsic discoloration because it exposes the inner part of the tooth to stains.

Dr. Corley will evaluate the tooth to see if he can bleach the stain from the inside of the tooth. If this isn't the case, a crown or veneer is the best option to correct the tooth's color. It's best to let Dr. Corley evaluate the tooth before suggesting a treatment plan.

"I want my patients to walk out of my office with a bright smile. It's one of the reasons I started my practice. I want to help promote oral health," said Dr. Corley, Destin, FL dentist.

To schedule an appointment with Dr. Corley for teeth whitening, crowns or veneers in Destin or any other service, patients can call (850) 654-6969 or use the online appointment request form.

To learn more about Dr. Corley, his staff or any of the services provided at his practice, patients are encouraged to visit his practice's comprehensive dental website that can be found at http://www.destindental.com/

Media Contact:
Dr. Richard Corley
Emerald Coast Dentist
[email protected]
14091-A Emerald Coast Parkway
Destin, FL 32541
(850) 654-6969
http://www.destindental.com

As seen on: http://www.epressdistribution.com/news.asp?id=2962

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