Extrinsic stains are superficial, affecting only the outer layer of the teeth. These stains are usually attributed to our daily diet, including common culprits like coffee, tea and wine. The good news is that extrinsic stains can often be removed through routine dental cleanings. Between appointments, maintaining oral hygiene with tools like electric toothbrushes and whitening toothpaste can be particularly effective. Brands such as Oral B and Sonicare are highly recommended by dental professionals. Additionally, using a straw for drinking stain-inducing beverages can significantly reduce their impact on your teeth, helping keep that pearly white sheen.

In contrast, intrinsic stains reside within the teeth, manifesting as a deeper, often yellowish discoloration that cannot be polished away. These stains require a more robust approach, typically involving products containing peroxide. Over-the-counter whitening strips are a good starting point to test for sensitivity and effectiveness. However, they contain a lower percentage of peroxide, which might not be sufficient for everyone.

For those seeking more dramatic results, professional treatments are available. One such option is the GLO system, used in dental offices. This system is designed to minimize sensitivity and can significantly lighten teeth shades in just an hour.

Whether combating extrinsic or intrinsic stains, it’s essential to consult with your dentist, Dr. Kime Whitman at Leesburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, to choose the most effective and safe method of teeth whitening for your smile. We are pleased to offer teeth whitening in Leesburg, Virginia. Please call 703-831-3952 to learn more or to schedule a treatment. With the right approach, you can achieve—and maintain—a luminously bright smile!

The post Unveiling the Secrets to a Brighter Smile: Understanding and Managing Dental Stains first appeared on Leesburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.

If you treat and or fill these areas early (we look for these during routine checkups and cleanings) they are usually able to be treated with a simple filling. Conversely, if you wait until there is pain, the decay and cavity will require more advanced treatments. This can be beyond just a filling and may require a crown or even a root canal. Also, if the decay or cavity is too extensive the tooth may even need to be extracted, which can lead to more complex issues in the future.

Furthermore, when tooth decay is painful that can mean there is an active infection. Infection can spread to other teeth in the mouth and you can even spread the bacteria that causes tooth decay to other people (via kissing, sharing food or utensils, etc). Therefore, it is important that you treat tooth decay and cavities as soon as possible to avoid more extensive dental problems from arising.

If you suspect you might have dental decay or a cavity, or it has simply been a while since your last dental checkup,  Dr. Kime Whitman and our team invite you to give us a call at 703-831-3952 and schedule a dental cleaning and checkup. At Leesburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we look forward to helping you and your family members with all of your dental needs, including essential preventative care!

The post Why Do You Need To Get a Cavity Treated or Filled if It Does Not Hurt? first appeared on Leesburg Family and Cosmetic Dentistry.