Expert: Dr. Jeffrey L. Wissot - 7/3/2005

Question
I have white spots on 4 of my top teeth from braces. I'm considering custom bleaching or Brite Smile but I'm afraid that will only make the spots more noticable. My dentist recommended bonding or veneers, but I don't want my teeth covered up after all those years of braces I went through, I want my natural teeth to be white and uniform. Is there any way bleaching could still work?

Answer
Sometimes hypocalcified enamel further whitens with bleaching; sometimes it tends to blend in better. In part, the decision depends on the color of your teeth. I would avoid bonding (maintenance issues) and only do veneers if there is a pressing concern. If fact, prior to veneers, it's a good idea to bleach the teeth, so that may be a starting point, only if you don't like your smil.

It may upset your dentist, but feel free to remind him that people "smile" with their eyes, not their teeth.

For information on teeth whitening, please visit:

http://www.dentistry.com/aesthetic_dental_center6.asp

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Jeffrey L. Wissot, DDS, FAGD
Dentistry.com, the Official Dental Resource
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