As we age, our teeth are destined to succumb to stains and dulling. This inevitability can happen much earlier, and to a much higher degree, with patients that have staining from medications such as tetracycline. Unfortunately, unlike the yellowing from coffee, tobacco, and dark colored foods, staining from medication is intrinsic (inside the dentin of your teeth). How does this happen, and how can you deal with it if it has happened to you? Your Wilmette cosmetic dentist, Dr. Brent A. Engelberg, will answer those questions.
Tetracycline Stains
Tetracycline is a very effective antibiotic. Unfortunately, through trial and error, it was discovered that when taken by pregnant women, this medication could have disastrous effects on the developing teeth of the fetus. Though these issues are not seen until primary teeth began to erupt, the discoloration is generally significant. The staining usually begins as yellow in color. As the teeth are exposed to light over time, the yellow can begin to darken to a brown color. Many people with this type of staining have brown teeth in front because they are exposed the most to light when they smile. The same staining can happen when children under the age of 8-years-old take tetracycline.
Treatment for Antibiotic Teeth Stains
If you have been afflicted with teeth staining from tetracycline, or any similar medication, you have probably already turned to whitening treatments. They are always worth an initial try, but if the stains are, in fact, intrinsic, bleaching will not be a likely solution. In these cases, porcelain veneers are often your best bet for covering up these appearance altering discolorations. Quality veneers will provide you with a flawless looking white, bright smile that will make your staining woes a thing of the past.
Cosmetic Dentist in Wilmette
Your cosmetic dentist in Wilmette offers cosmetic procedures that can help with a number of dental procedures, including teeth whitening and porcelain veneers. You can reach our 60035 dentist office at 847-259-8030. We are happy to serve patients in Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, Northwest Chicago Suburbs, and Northern Chicago Suburbs.
