Whitening (Vital Tooth Bleaching)
Only a qualified dental professional can perform tooth whitening procedures.
As we age our teeth naturally lose their white color. Habits like drinking coffee and smoking cigarettes can make things worse by adding stains to the mix. White teeth can be regained through a process known as whitening.
There are two different types of whitening procedures that may be performed. One procedure is done in the dental chair where the dentist will apply a hydrogen peroxide solution to the targeted teeth and apply a laser light to accelerate the process.
The second vital bleaching system is one that you can do at home. You will visit the dental office for the consultation and have an impression taken for a night guard. You will be supplied with a gel that is placed in the night guard that you leave in your mouth for a specific time, sometimes overnight. It is very important to follow home care instructions carefully and not exceed the time when leaving the bleach on the teeth.

Bonding
The appearance of your teeth can also be improved by cosmetic bonding. Bonding material is made of white composite filling material just like that used on anterior fillings. It can reduce gaps between teeth, repair chipped teeth or cover teeth that are badly stained. Some antibiotics can cause intrinsic darkening and staining that does not respond well to a whitening system.

Veneers
A veneer is a layer of tooth colored material, usually porcelain, which is cemented to the facial surface of the tooth. Veneers are also used to improve the appearance of teeth, particularly if they are discolored; eroded or surface abrasions are evident. A veneer may be placed on one or more anterior teeth to improve the color of the teeth or perhaps to close in a large gap between teeth. This procedure is much less invasive than a full coverage restoration and it preserves the natural structure of the tooth.

If a veneer becomes chipped or discolored it can easily be replaced. A patient should avoid biting on hard substances such as ice, bones, and hard vegetables that could fracture the veneer.