Teeth Whitening for Teeth with Thin Enamel?

Question

How do I whiten teeth with thin enamel that shows the dentin? I had acid reflux that is now under control. However my teeth are now yellow in hue due to my dentin. In office, and custom tray at home whitening have not helped.Any suggestions other then expensive veneers?

Lance Timmerman, DMD, MAGD · Answer

Unfortunately, not everything works for everybody. By doing a "Deep Bleaching" process, you may be able to get the enamel AND dentin to lighten. However, whitening of teeth is unpredictable. Some people lighten very well and others not as much.
Generally speaking, if you want whiter teeth, bleaching may satisfy you. If you have a specific level of white you are seeking, bleaching may be a frustrating process for you.  Only porcelain crowns or veneers give you the control of the exact level of white you desire. If your enamel is very thin, you may get an added benefit of stronger teeth by placing porcelain on them, so the restorative work has a functional component and not just a cosmetic desire.

Thomas Dey, BDS, MSc · Answer

As you have found out, whitening is not always the full answer. In your case I doubt it has done any harm, but if the colour is not what you were looking for, veneers are likely to be the best answer.You can go for composite veneers such as a product called Edelweiss, or a similar product from Coltene if your dentist provides it, or in office bonding of direct composite resins. Both are slightly cheaper but this is really a case if you get what you pay for. Good luck whatever you decide to do!Thomas Dey, BDS, MSc

Gregory Allen Kerbel, DDS · Answer

I am a big fan of whitening. It is conservative and very effective as long as your teeth have enough enamel. The yellow part showing through is most likely the dentin and whitening is intended to work on the enamel portion. 
For patients who have lost enamel to the degree that you are describing, then a restorative option becomes the best choice. That includes veneers, if there is enough enamel to achieve good bonding, but may mean full coverage all ceramic crowns for the best long term solution.
Remember that you are not only looking to improve the way you look, but you need to restore your function today and for your future.

Lorenzo Minniti, DDS · Answer

If your teeth are so eroded that the dentin shows through the translucent enamel on the front part of your teeth,  you may have already lost all of the enamel on the back of your teeth.  Whatever is left ( the dentin) will wear down much more quckly and will not bleach to a satisfactory shade
You should consider all porcelain crowns to restore the contour and color of your teeth, and protect them from further breakdown.

Daniel W. Schiavone, DDS · Answer

If the strength of your teeth is compromised by erosion then full porcelain crowns may be the best option.  Your teeth will get cosmetic improvement AND structural re-enforcement.

Teeth Whitening for Teeth with Thin Enamel?

Answers (8)

Answer: Crowns may be needed for heavily eroded teeth

Answer: Crowns may be needed for heavily eroded teeth

Answer: Full crowns may be a better option

Answer: Full crowns may be a better option

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Everything you need to know about Teeth Whitening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Teeth Whitening for Teeth with Thin Enamel?

Answers (8)

Answer: Crowns may be needed for heavily eroded teeth

Answer: Crowns may be needed for heavily eroded teeth

Answer: Full crowns may be a better option

Answer: Full crowns may be a better option

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Teeth Whitening

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.