Microabrasion
Many children and adults have degrees of discoloration on their permanent teeth. The discolorations can range from a dark brownish color to a deep white spot or hue to the teeth. While there are a number of causes to tooth discoloration of permanent teeth, from trauma to medications, knowing the cause is not necessary for evaluating whether the tooth color can be improved. One new technique, which we have been very successful with in removing these discolorations, is called Microabrasion. The technique involves the dentist isolating and drying the teeth and gradually applying a gritty paste like substance to the teeth to remove surface stains and discoloration. This leaves the tooth a much lighter color. Many stains can be eliminated with this technique. However, if the teeth have deeper stains or dense discolorations, have previously been traumatized and had root canal treatment, or as a child the patient had medications such as tetracycline, it is not possible to remove them with this technique. At times is difficult to predict whether microabrasion can remove a specific stain from a tooth. We know that brown and other dark stains are removed more easily. Generalized lighter white discolorations, like striated bands around the teeth or generalized spotting can be improved and many times removed completely. Very deep white stains cannot be completely removed by microabrasion.This technique blends the varying colors of the discolored teeth, removes the bright or dark spots, so that the color is more natural and homogenous. It is a safe, comfortable, and effective technique.
There are other treatments for improving the appearance of stained and discolored teeth. Tooth bonding, plastic or porcelain veneers, or porcelain crowns can be placed. These techniques are very successful but require the removal of varying amounts of tooth structure and will have to be replaced a number of times throughout life. Also the expense involved in not minor. Microabrasion is a safer and less invasive procedure. If it doesn't work, other more complicated techniques can be attempted. Dentistry has advanced greatly in the field of cosmetics. No patient, child or adult, need not smile due to the appearance of his or her teeth.
Center for Pediatric Dental Care * 1560 Beacon Street * Brookline, MA 02446 * 617-731-KIDS (5437)
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