Intrinsic Staining

The Oyster Bay Family Dentists provide technologically advanced services for removing dental stains, but there is an important distinction to be made between stains that are extrinsic to the tooth and those that are intrinsic. Extrinsic stains caused by things such as smoking and drinking dark fluids and only affect the outermost layers of the teeth. They can be removed through bleaching. But intrinsic stains are caused by overexposure to fluoride, use of tetracycline antibiotics, or pulp inflammation, and sometimes require a different approach.

Of course, an intrinsic stain can still be masked with a veneer or bonding. But pulp inflammation indicates that a tooth is injured or infected. We will use the advanced imaging devices in our office to detect whether there is an infection within the tooth or at its root. A root canal may be necessary to remove the inflamed tissues, after which the crown may be either filled and sealed or replaced entirely. Our doctors are highly skilled prosthodontists, so if a crown does need to be replaced, patients may rest assured the new one will be cosmetically pleasing.

Drs. Denise VeyVoda and Robert G. West operate The Oyster Bay Family Dentists at 123 South Street, Oyster Bay, New York, 11771. To schedule an appointment, call 516-922-5730 or visit OysterBayDentists.com and fill out a contact sheet.