Tag Archives: teeth whitening

Teeth whitening

Why Aren’t Teeth Whitening Strips Working for My Tetracycline Stains?

Hi. Why aren’t whitening strips working for tetracycline stains on my teeth? I have been using teeth whitening strips for 6 months, and they have done nothing for my teeth. I have tetracycline stains on my teeth, so I expected it would take a little longer, but the strips have made no difference. Does it matter which brand I use, or must I buy whitening from a dentist? I feel like I’ve wasted so much time and money without improvement. Thanks. Kyndal

Kyndal– Tetracycline stains are intrinsic to the teeth and are very difficult, and sometimes impossible, to remove. Over-the-counter whitening strips won’t budge the stains.

Even professional teeth whitening from a dentist will result in limited improvement—if any–for tetracycline stains. However, a skilled cosmetic dentist can use porcelain veneers to hide the stains without making your teeth look pasty or opaque. Veneers are custom-crafted porcelain shells that fit over the fronts of your teeth. Veneers restore the teeth that show when you smile, but they are unsuitable for back teeth.

A cosmetic dentist can manipulate the porcelain to hide tetracycline stains, making the veneers look completely natural. The dentist will bond the veneers to your teeth for a solution lasting eight to ten years—even longer.

Schedule consultations with at least two cosmetic dentists to discuss your options for concealing the stains in your teeth.

Dr. Miranda Lacy, a Plano, Texas dentist, sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

Is Peroxide Good for a Mouthwash Against Dental Office Germs?

I read online that hydrogen peroxide can disinfect dental office germs like coronavirus. I have a teeth whitening appointment before I get veneers in August. So, I looked online and found a do-it-yourself mouth rinse recipe that includes hydrogen peroxide. My only concern about rinsing my mouth with it is that it will only be helpful until I get veneers. I know alcohol-based mouthwash can loosen the bonding on veneers, but what about peroxide? Thank you. Cassie

Cassie,

It’s good that you have a dentist who understands you must whiten your teeth before getting porcelain veneers to ensure they match your whitened teeth. Whitening teeth after getting veneers can make them look darker than your teeth.

While the American Dental Association recommends at least a one-and-a-half percent concentration, some dental offices use about four or five percent rinses. Alcohol-based mouthwash can weaken the bonding behind porcelain veneers and cause stains. Still, weakening porcelain veneers’ bonding is not the only concern when choosing a mouthwash.

A Rutger’s School of Dental Medicine study published results on mouthwash and its effect on coronavirus. Additionally, the Environmental Protection Agency lists hydrogen peroxide as a disinfectant for COVID-19.

Still, if you get porcelain veneers, you must be cautious about which toothpaste and mouthwash you use. But even if you do not have porcelain veneers, regularly using hydrogen peroxide as a mouthwash can cause other problems.

What Are the Effects of Hydrogen Peroxide Mouthwash?

The effects of hydrogen peroxide mouthwash include:

  • It kills many harmful microorganisms
  • Long-term use kills healthy bacteria, too
  • Long-term use causes yeast (candida albicans) to thrive

Regular use of peroxide as mouthwash can result in an oral yeast infection. Your oral issue will turn white, peel, red, and become painful.

If you get an oral yeast infection, your dentist will recommend taking oral antifungal tablets, lozenges, or using a liquid for seven to fourteen days to eliminate the infection. You must complete treatment to prevent the infection from recurring.

Teeth whitening

Are Ceramic Crowns a Metal-Free Option for Me?

I have three porcelain on metal crowns, but I want to get ceramic crowns instead. After successful cancer surgery last month, I want to reduce as many risks as possible and treat myself to new crowns. I read online that crowns contain metal ions. Should I be concerned? Also, I want my teeth whitened before the crowns because they are yellow from 30 years of smoking. I quit smoking when I got a cancer diagnosis, so whitening my teeth will make me feel more confident. Are ceramic crowns the way to go to reduce my metal exposure? Joshua

Joshua,

Although all-ceramic crowns do not contain metal known to provoke reactions, they have metal ions.

Metal Ions

Metal ions are essential for human, animal, and plant life. These ions are in the human body:

  • Calcium
  • Cobalt
  • Copper
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese
  • Molybdenum
  • Potassium
  • Zinc

Lithium

Lithium is in the sodium family. The ceramic lithium disilicate is in strong ceramic dental crowns, including e.max crowns.

Zirconium

Zirconia crowns are of high strength. Dental ceramists use zirconia to build dental bridges that are so strong they do not need a metal framework.

Advanced cosmetic dentists understand the types of ceramics available for dental crowns and will work with you to find a ceramic that matches your needs.

The condition of your teeth and the location of your crowns affects the type of ceramic that will look natural and be durable. Look for an experienced cosmetic dentist who understands which ceramics are best for front and back teeth for aesthetics and durability.

Teeth Bleaching

Ask your cosmetic dentist which brands they use and research the contents. Your dentist will work with you to ensure your metal-free crowns match your whitened teeth.

Best wishes for your healthier smile with new crowns.

Dr. Miranda Lacy, a Plano, Texas dentist, sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

Can I Trust Ads for Discounted Teeth Whitening?

I’ve been getting Groupon e-mails weekly for at-home teeth whitening products and teeth whitening specials with dentists. Do these really work? I’ve always wanted to have a really white smile, and now it looks like I can do it affordably. How do I know if it’s not a waste of money? – Karla R. from San Antonio

Karla,

Thank you for your question.

At-home teeth whitening products are becoming increasingly popular. Some of the products contain 35% carbamide peroxide, which will whiten your teeth.

Still, be careful. Getting teeth whitening from your dentist has many advantages, even if you decide to get a take-home kit from your dentist. Factors to consider:

  • Types of stains – The American Dental Association confirms that teeth whitening does not work with all types of stains. Depending on the cause of the stains, the bleaching gel may not correct them and can even can make the stains more noticeable.
  • Whether you have dental restorations – A dentist needs to check existing dental work on your teeth, including crowns, veneers, and bonding, before starting the teeth whitening process. Bleaching your teeth can make them whiter than the restorations, and you will have mismatched results.
  • Custom bleaching trays – Your dentist will provide you with customized trays for your teeth. The trays help you avoid wasting the gel or irritating your gums from bleaching gel that oozes out of the trays.
  • Progress checks – Your dentist can monitor the progress of the teeth whitening and adjust your treatment as needed.

Be cautious about the products that you use. Talk with your dentist about the coupons you have seen and discuss the cost. Your dentist might be willing to work with your budget so that you can get your teeth safely whitened.

Plano, Texas dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

Should You Choose Ultra-thin or Traditional Veneers?

Porcelain veneers transform smiles. A skilled cosmetic dentist and ceramist can manipulate porcelain to mimic the color and translucence of natural teeth. Advanced dental technology has introduced ultra-thin veneers. Which type of veneers should you choose?

Should You Choose Ultra-thin or Traditional Veneers?

Whether you choose ultra-thin or traditional veneers depends on your case, the condition of your teeth, and your dentist’s recommendations. We explain some factors that may influence your and your dentist’s decision.

Traditional Porcelain Veneers

Traditional veneers have the following characteristics:

  • About .5 millimeter thick
  • Require preparation of your natural teeth so they fit correctly and will not look bulky
  • 0.3 to 0.5 millimeters of the front surface of a tooth is removed to prepare it for a veneer

Ultra-Thin Veneers

Ultra-thin veneers have the following characteristics:

  • About .3 millimeter thick
  • Can be bonded to your teeth without preparation
  • Cosmetic dentists strive to remove a minimal amount of a tooth’s front surface

What Do Ultra-thin and Traditional Veneers Have in Common?

Ultra-thin and traditional veneers have several things in common:

Teeth whitening application
Your cosmetic dentist can whiten your teeth before placing veneers
  • Custom-made in a dental lab
  • Match the characteristics of your natural teeth, so in the hands of a skilled cosmetic dentist, people will think your veneers are your natural teeth
  • Stain-resistant
  • Can last 15-20 years if you take diligent care of them and have them maintained by a trained cosmetic dentist

Which Should You Choose?

Schedule an appointment with a skilled cosmetic dentist. They can determine which type of veneers will give you the best results based on the condition of your teeth, the shape, position, and size of your teeth, and the results you want to achieve. You should not insist on either traditional or ultra-thin veneers. A cosmetic dentist will also preserve as much tooth structure as possible yet produce natural-looking results. The dentist will bond your veneers to ensure they look natural and are durable.

Many patients find it helpful to schedule at least two consultations before making decisions about porcelain veneers. Below are a few tips for scheduling your consultation:

  • Select experienced cosmetic dentists, preferably accredited, who have advanced, post-graduate training.
  • Look for a smile gallery on each dentist’s website and find photos of patients who received porcelain veneers.
  • Ask the dentist how many porcelain veneer cases they have completed.
  • Compare the recommendations, treatment plan, and costs of each dentist.
  • Look for patient reviews on the dentist’s work.

What Can You Expect?

After the consultation, if you are interested in porcelain veneers, you can expect the following:

  • An exam
  • Digital x-rays
  • A smile design that includes your preferences and considers your facial features to ensure natural-looking results

If you want a bright smile with porcelain veneers, your cosmetic dentist must whiten your natural teeth first. It will ensure that your veneers match the color of your teeth.

Miranda Lacy, DDS, a Plano, Texas, female dentist sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

Dentist won’t whiten my teeth without treating a broken tooth first

I have intense pain in a tooth that broke three years ago. I did not see a dentist about it until I decided to get my teeth cleaned and whitened. Last week, I saw a dentist who says that there is no way I can get my teeth whitened without treating this tooth that is hurting my chin and jaw. The dentist asked me to return for an x-ray because I was in the office for a teeth whitening consultation. Is it necessary to take care of an old broken tooth before whitening my teeth? – Brandon from Denver, CO

Brandon,

A tooth infection is causing your pain, and it needs treatment right away. If the pain is traveling into your jaw and chin, the infection is spreading.

Tooth Pain in Your Jaw and Chin

If you have tooth pain in your jaw and chin, schedule an appointment for an x-ray as the dentist you saw recommended. And ask her to x-ray your other teeth. Your broken tooth probably had a large cavity. Before pain spreads to your jawbone, other teeth can get infected along the way. Stopping the infection now is a wise decision.

When Can You Get Your Teeth Whitened?

Nose-to-chin photo of a man's white teeth - from Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy

You can get teeth whitened after the infection is clear. If the dentist can save your broken tooth, she will recommend root canal treatment and a crown. But if most of the healthy tooth structure is gone, or if the tooth is too damaged, you will need an extraction.

If root canal treatment is an option, you can wear a temporary crown until completing the whitening process. After your teeth are as white as you want them, your dentist can make a crown to match.

Check the Dentist’s Cosmetic Dentistry Training

The improvement you want for your smile can benefit from a cosmetic dentist, so check for the dentist’s advanced cosmetic dentistry training. A cosmetic dentist can perfectly match a crown to your newly whitened teeth. The results will look natural.

Miranda Lacy, DDS of Plano, TX, sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

How Can I Fix a Chipped Tooth?

My teeth are healthy, but I want to make some changes that will make my smile look better. Three weeks ago, my tooth chipped. It’s really a small chip on the outer edge of my front center tooth. You can see it, but it is not very noticeable. But I have also been wanted to get my teeth whitening. I read online that I should get my teeth whitened before getting a porcelain veneer for the chip. How natural looking will the veneer look? Can a dentist shape it exactly the way it was? And if I get my teeth whitened, will the veneer be a close match or a perfect match? I am afraid to get a veneer if it is not going to match perfectly. Since it is a cracked front tooth, I think a mismatched veneer will be more noticeable than the small crack. Thank you! M. Santiago fro LA

Dear M. Santiago,

We wish that Dr. Lacy could examine your tooth to explain your treatment options. But you likely have two options for your cracked tooth, and a porcelain veneer is one of them.

How Can You Fix Chipped Tooth?

A dentist can repair a chipped with a porcelain veneer or dental bonding. Either cosmetic dentistry treatment can make your tooth look like it was never chipped. Let us explain the difference between repairing a chipped tooth with a veneer vs. dental bonding.

Porcelain veneer for a chipped tooth

If a cosmetic dentist repairs your chipped tooth with a porcelain veneer, you can expect the following:

  • Coverage – A porcelain veneer will cover the entire front of your tooth.
  • Tooth preparation – A dentist will likely need to prepare—or etch—the tooth lightly to ensure the veneer fits well.
  • Crafting the veneer – After your dentist takes an impression of your teeth, a lab will make a custom veneer to fit over your chipped tooth.
  • Skill level – A dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training can give you a lifelike veneer that matches the characteristics of your chipped tooth and matches your brightened smile.
  • Cost – The average cost of one veneer in the U.S. is about $1500.
  • Longevity – Well-made veneers can last up to 20 years.

Dental bonding for a chipped tooth

If a dentist uses dental bonding to conceal a chipped tooth, you can expect the following:

  • Coverage – Dental bonding will fill in the chip and blend with the surrounding tooth structure. A dentist will not need to cover your entire tooth with bonding.
  • Tooth preparation – A dentist will roughen your tooth enamel in preparation for bonding.
  • Crafting the bonding – A dentist mixes composite bonding in the office to match your tooth shade. Afterward, the dentist will shape, harden, and polish the bonding.
  • Skill level – Almost any dentist can use dental bonding to conceal a small chip.
  • Cost – The average cost of dental bonding in the U.S. is about $100 – $400 per tooth.
  • Longevity – Dental bonding lasts three to five years.
Before and after photos for information on free teeth whitening, from Plano TX dentist Miranday Lacy DDS.
A cosmetic dentist can whiten your teeth and match bonding or a veneer

If you prefer a porcelain veneer over dental bonding, look for a dentist with advanced cosmetic dentistry training. Then, you will get natural-looking results that match your newly whitened teeth.

Miranda Lacy, DDS, a Plano, TX female cosmetic dentist, sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

My dentist extracted my tooth and left two roots behind

I had not been to a dentist in years, so I decided to get an exam and cleaning and schedule teeth whitening later. A needed several fillings before I could get my teeth whitened, and the dentist said one tooth was severely decayed and required an extraction. The dentist extracted the tooth last Thursday, and this weekend when I looked at the extraction hole to clean it, I saw two roots of the tooth left. Will those roots interfere with a dental implant, and why would my dentist leave them? Thank you. Konnor

Thank you for your question. Molar teeth have multiple roots, and it is a challenge to see into an extraction site near the back of your mouth. Are you sure that you see tooth roots are left and not debris stuck in the socket?

If your dentist left two roots behind, there must be a reason for it—although your dentist should inform you when this happens. Sometimes the location of tooth root tips is so close to the sinus that removing them could puncture the sinus or damage or nerve. But the roots must be removed before getting a dental implant.

Not all dentists are comfortable retrieving tooth roots and tips, and some do not have the instruments required to do it. The process can be challenging and lengthy for a dentist who does not have much experience in this area. If you have roots left in the extraction site instead of debris and your dentist cannot remove them, an oral surgeon can. It is easier to remove the roots soon after extraction, so schedule an appointment promptly

Teeth Whitening After Extraction

After the extraction site heals, you can begin teeth whitening treatment. When your teeth are as white as you want, your implant dentist will begin the process. A lab will make your dental crowns to match your brightened smile.

Selecting Your Dental Implants Provider

Diagram of dental imlant components, including the root form, connector, and crown
Dental implant

Look for a skilled implant dentist or oral surgeon. If your dentist left roots and not debris behind, it might be challenging for him to resolve the issue with the roots before placing a dental implant. It might be best to ask for a referral to an oral surgeon for tooth root removal and implant placement.

Plano, TX dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

Is an extraction instead of a root canal necessary?

I scheduled an appointment for a dental exam and teeth whitening consultation. The exam included an x-ray, and the dentist said he isn’t comfortable doing teeth whitening yet because one of my top left molars that already has a crown on it no longer has a canal. The tooth has been uncomfortable for a few months, but I didn’t think it was that serious. My dentist prescribed antibiotics and said that since the tooth doesn’t have a canal, he can’t do root canal treatment. If the tooth doesn’t improve from antibiotics, he recommends extraction. I’ve read many times that it is always better to keep your natural teeth. My dentist didn’t give me any options. Are there alternatives to an extraction? – Thank you. Latha

Latha,

Although Dr. Lacy would need to examine your tooth and x-rays for an accurate diagnosis, we are not comfortable with your dentist’s evaluation.

Antibiotics for tooth discomfort

Your tooth cannot be treated with antibiotics alone. A dentist might use antibiotics as a diagnostic tool.

  • Tooth pain that improves with antibiotics – If tooth pain goes away with antibiotic treatment, you have a tooth infection. Treatment options can include root canal treatment or extraction. But if your dentist does not treat the tooth and remove the infection, after you stop taking the medication, the symptoms will return.
  • Tooth pain that does not improve with antibiotics – When antibiotics do not resolve tooth pain, it is an indication that a tooth infection is not the source. Your dentist would need to find the cause before recommending treatment.

A tooth without a canal?

If a dentist tells you that your tooth does not have a canal, two possible factors include:

  • Upper molar teeth have a lot of bone around them, making it difficult to see the root canal, so your dentist’s assessment might not be correct.
  • Tooth irritation causes a buildup of dentin (layer beneath tooth enamel) inside the tooth pulp and canals. The buildup narrows the canals and can make them more challenging to see on an x-ray.

Saving your natural tooth

If you want to save your tooth, we recommend getting a second opinion. Look for an endodontist (root canal specialist) or ask your dentist for a referral to an endodontist. Be aware that your dentist might refer you to a friend who will agree with your dentist’s assessment. You may want an independent opinion.

Photo of upper and lower teeth whitening trays in a blue case; for information on free teeth whitening from the office Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.
Only begin teeth whitening treatment if your teeth are healthy

After an examination and x-ray, an endodontist will explain if it’s possible to save your tooth and the results you can expect with root canal treatment. It is wise to postpone your plans for teeth whitening until your tooth is healthy. Otherwise, it may become further irritated.

Miranda Lacy, DDS, a Plano, TX, female dentist sponsors this post.

Teeth whitening

9 Causes of Bad Breath and Why Hiding the Odor Isn’t Good Enough

I have a bad smell in my mouth. I brush daily but it still smells. I chew gum all day long and suck on mints, but I don’t want to get cavities from all the sugar. Any suggestions? Will teeth whitening help? – Thanks. Luca from San Antonio

Luca – Many factors can affect the way your breath smells. Although teeth whitening products can brighten your smile, they won’t help your breath smell fresh.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Several factors are reviewed below.

1. Bacteria

Bacteria in your mouth is the most common cause of bad breath. In addition to brushing your teeth daily, floss between them. Flossing removes food debris that promotes bacteria. If bacteria get stuck between your teeth, it will begin to smell bad. Some people benefit from a tongue cleaner to remove bacteria. Others gently brush their tongue.

2. Gum Disease

Infected gum tissue breeds bacteria. Gums can get inflamed and pus-filled and cause a foul odor on your breath.

3. Dry Mouth

Saliva cleanses your mouth. Lack of saliva production causes bacteria to breed and make your breath smell bad. Breathing through your mouth, instead of your nose, will also decrease saliva production.

4. GERD

When stomach acid flows up your esophagus, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs. The backup of regurgitated food can cause your breath to smell bad.

5. Liver Disease

Your liver removes toxins from your body. If your liver isn’t functioning properly, toxins can build up in your bloodstream and cause a sweet, musty odor on your breath.

6. Kidney Disease

Malfunctioning kidneys cause minerals to collect in your bloodstream. The result is often a metallic taste in your mouth and breath that smells like ammonia.

7. Extreme Low-Carb Diet

If you’re on an extremely low-carb diet, your body will burn fat, instead of sugar. Fat burning releases ketones in your body, including acetone, which can make your breath smell like nail polish.

8. Pneumonia

Phlegm from the bacterial or viral infection in your lung has a bad odor. As you cough it up, it will affect the smell of your breath.

9. Bronchitis

As you cough, foul-smelling mucus from your lungs will make your breath smell bad, too.

There are powerful products to help you treat bad breath, including BreathRx. But don’t neglect an appointment with your dentist or medical doctor to identify the cause of the problem. You might have an underlying medical condition that needs to be treated. The odor of your breath can be a lifesaving sign of something more serious. Don’t ignore it.

Plano, TX dentist Miranda Lacy sponsors this post.