Many patients report that when they have a cavity or a dental infection, the first sign of a problem was a small bit of discoloration on the infected tooth. Patients may notice a black or brown spot on otherwise white teeth as a cavity begins to develop. Often, infected teeth will not become painful or sore until the infection has progressed, so for many people dental discoloration is the only sign of a problem for many months.

Unfortunately, patients who avoid regular professional dental cleanings may not realize they have an infection until it has progressed. Consequently, patients may end up with dull, discolored looking teeth even after their infection is treated.

The good news is that our Sullivan cosmetic dentists can help you whiten your teeth and regain your brilliant smile with modern cosmetic dentistry. First of all, modern dentistry allows dentists to use white, natural-looking composite fillings to seal treated teeth. This means that your fillings can look like a natural part of your tooth, rather than an obviously dark and metallic dental restoration.

If, after your infection is treated, you find that your teeth still appear discolored and darker than you’d like, you may benefit from professional teeth whitening. Professional teeth whitening treatments are actually bleaching treatments—they utilize carbamide or hydrogen peroxide to bleach dental enamel beyond their natural state of whiteness.  These professional whitening treatments are incredibly effective, and many patients can whiten their smiles by several shades.

If your teeth are resistant to teeth whitening treatments, or severely damaged, you may benefit from cosmetic veneers. Dental veneers are placed over existing dental enamel, visually resurfacing the appearance of your smile.

No matter what your cosmetic concern, the first thing to do is obtain dental health by treating any cavities or infections you may currently have. Once your smile is healthy, our Sullivan cosmetic dental office will walk you through your cosmetic options!