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What is my Best Bet to Treat my Tetracycline Stained Teeth?

I have heard so many mixed reviews about veneers and lumineers that I'm not just confused. Could bonding even work? I'm afraid of lasting pain or sensitivity after a procedure and would just like a natural, lasting, painless smile. What would be the best option for me?

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12 Doctor Answers | Asked by BrennaM10 in Safety Harbor, FL

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Esthetic treatment for tetracycline teeth

Tetracycline teeth can be quite a disturbing factor due to the nature of internal stain. There are the ways to improve the aesthetic look of the smile with minimal discomfort. Porcelain veneers can cover the darkened areas of enamel. Usually lumineers are not the great option because they are very thin and dark enamel can show through. Local anesthesia, mild pain control medications can decrease any sensitivity and give the long-lasting smile. Bonding of large anterior areas on central teeth... more

Tetracycline stained teeth - what are your options

In my opinion I would veneer your teeth, I have whitened many tetracylcine teeth with a procedure called KoR Whitening with terrific results but I think in your case placing veneers would be the better option. I feel that a veneer is the least invasive procedure. By reducing the surface of the tooth appropriately, the porcelain can be made thick enough to mask the discoloration and retain the natural shape and appearance of the tooth. I do not think Lumineers are a good... more

What to do for tetracycline-stained teeth

Porcelain veneers offer the best esthetics while providing the most conservative option to mask those tetracycline-stained teeth. Cosmetic bonding may not block out the underlying color, may not be as stain-resistant, and may not last as long as porcelain restorations. On the other extreme, porcelain crowns are not as conservative as veneers but do offer comparable esthetics since they are also made of porcelain. When done properly, porcelain veneers can last a... more

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Hiding Tetracycline Stains

Unlike foods and smoking which stain the surface of the teeth, tetracycline is absorbed into the tooth structure as it is forming anf growing. It is an internal discoloration. Tooth whitening will not succeed in masking this type of discoloration. Plastic composite bonding can be used to hide the stains, but over time the composites will stain, margins break down and the restoration loose it's aesthetics. I feel that a veneer is the least invasive procedure. ... more

Thin porcelain veneers are your best choice

I do understand your concerns and it's natural to be kind of confused with the differing opinions that you will hear. I hope I can help you understand the differences and help give you the best advice for the goals you listed - natural, lasting & painless. Porcelain veneers is your best option. Saying that, not all porcelain veneers are the same. If you chief concern is tetracycline stains and your teeth arrangement (orthodontic relationship) is... more

Veneers for Tetracycline Stained Teeth

I'd like to help you clear up your confusion: Go with Veneers. Your tetracycline staining will not be helped with teeth whitening. Bonding over tetracycline staining can be really hit and miss and often requires the removal of more tooth structure than veneers would to attain proper tooth contours and mask the staining. Unfortunately Lumineers are often used as the poor man's veneers. You won't find many top cosmetic dentists that use them. You... more

Options for tetracycline-stained teeth

As you know, the tetracycline-staining is intrinsic--meaning, it is a part of your tooth. The best option for you would be porcelain restorations, whether they are veneers, 3/4 crowns, or full crowns. Composite resin bonding to correct the tetracycline staining is usually not very pleasing esthetically. The porcelain restorations should not result in pain or sensitivity, although this is a risk with any restorative procedure. The porcelain restorations will however... more

Veneers are your better option

In your case, I would go with veneers, as they are the least invasive treatment. They can be made so that the tetracycline staining will not show. Lumineers, on the other hand are not a good choice, as they are too thin and the staining will show through.

Keep it Conservative

Many patients in your shoes are confused as to how to best handle those ugly tetracycline stains. In years past, those patients that were not committed to veneers or crowns did nothing and just lived with it. If your teeth are not pitted or mottled, and you are happy with the shape, there is a good conservative alternative treatment. It is called KOR deep bleaching and yes it does work and with very little sensitivity. The drawback to this is that it will require 4-6... more

Porcelain Veneers for Tetracycline Teeth

Teeth whitening would not work for you if your teeth are tetracycline stained. Teeth bleaching systems only remove what are called extrinsic stains (coffee, tea , red wine, etc.). Tetracycline cases are treated with porcelain veneers giving excellent results. Most cases can be done in two visits and your new smile will look stunning. Veneers can be made to give you the natural look that you are searching for. Good luck.

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