Cedar Rapids IA dentist offers microabrasion

When you look in the mirror or smile in a picture, do you notice that your teeth are not as vibrant as they once were? Yellow teeth do not necessarily mean that they are unhealthy, but they can be unappealing and cause you to have lower confidence. At Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA, we offer several cosmetic treatments that can remove stains and improve the appearance of your smile. One unique method that we offer is microabrasion. Today, we will be discussing how this process works and who may benefit from it.

The Process Of Microabrasion

Before having this done, you will first need a consultation. This will help determine if the stains are intrinsic or extrinsic. If the discoloration is caused by things such as coffee, tea, and other dark-colored foods and beverages you consume, you may benefit from this procedure. If your stains have been caused by injury or fluoride overuse, whitening will not be rid of them, and an alternative method should be used instead.

Essentially, microabrasion uses gentle tools to scrub off stains on your enamel. Unlike traditional teeth whitening, this does not require the use of bleach. A special paste will be applied, and a gentle tool will be used to remove it. Finally, the area is rinsed, and you are left with a brighter smile. This method will take only a single appointment and is great for patients with sensitive teeth.

How Whitening Differs

With professional teeth whitening, you will apply a brightening gel to your custom trays every night. After a few days, the stains will be removed. This is a great treatment option for patients whose teeth have become yellowed due to coffee consumption and other foods or beverages containing tannins. Unfortunately, though, if you have sensitive teeth this method can cause discomfort. While professional whitening is safer than generic store-bought strips, the gel can be too strong for some patients. To achieve your smile goals without discomfort, microabrasion may be a great option.

If You Have Deeper Stains

As mentioned above, if you have intrinsic discoloration, whitening will not be able to address these issues. These stains are below the enamel and may be caused by trauma to the tooth, infection, or overuse of fluoride. As a result, the area may be brown, gray, or greenish in color. For patients with this category of discoloration, a more effective method of improvement may be bonding. This treatment is the process of adding composite resin to the blemished area. Composite resin is a highly durable material that blends in with the color of your smile. Bonding can be completed in a single appointment and leave you with a more even-appearing grin.

Schedule Your Appointment Today

To schedule a microabrasion appointment or other service, call Cedar Dental in Cedar Rapids, IA today at (319) 364-7108.