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Removal of Superficial Spots on Teeth There are many reasons for superficial white, brown, gray, or orange spots that appear on tooth surfaces. In some cases, heredity is the cause - if your ancestors had such spots, then you might also. Cigarettes, coffee and tea also can cause superficial spots, but these stains can usually be removed by the hygienist at your routine cleaning. Tetracycline has been shown to cause stains that range in color from yellow to orange to brown to blue-gray. Tetracycline ingested between the ages of four months prior to birth to nine months after birth can often affect primary teeth, and, if taken during the first nine years of life, can affect permanent teeth with superficial spotting. Regardless of their origin, these spots frequently are objectionable (unsightly), in which case they may be removed in one or more of the following ways: Microabrasion For removal of a small amount of the discolored tooth structure, an abrasive solution is the most conservative method used. This method, microabrasion, which is painless (requiring no anesthetics), is usually very fast and relatively inexpensive - and it produces a permanent result. We will tell you if this procedure is appropriate for the superficial spots on your teeth. Restorations Spots or discolorations which go deeper may be eliminated through small restorations. Veneers or Bonding If there are multiple or very deep discolorations, then thin custom-made pieces of plastic or porcelain called veneers can be bonded to the surfaces of the teeth to cover the spots. Veneers provide an excellent appearance and have a longevity of several years. We recommend beginning with conservative microabrasion, if possible. If this is successful, additional treatment will not be necessary. When the spots are too deep, then small restorations may be needed; if the spots or discolorations are very deep, then veneers usually will be recommended at the outset. |
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