For most people, having their teeth whitened is a fairly simple process. If you have thin enamel, however, it's not as simple as you'd think. When the enamel on your teeth is thin, you need to be cautious about your whitening options so that you don't damage the tooth. In most cases, whitening teeth with thin enamel should be a professional process. Here are a few options that are available to you if your tooth enamel is wearing thin.

Cosmetic Whitening Treatments

Your tooth's enamel is designed to protect the dentin (the material your tooth is made of). As that enamel wears thin, the natural yellow color of the dentin will start to show through. A cosmetic dentist can often help to improve the appearance of your teeth using whitening agents designed specifically for situations like these.

Special whitening materials will help improve the color of your teeth without damaging the enamel that remains. This is a good option for people whose dentin is light to moderate in color. If your tooth's natural dentin is darker yellow, it may not be as effective. In those cases, your dentist may recommend more extensive treatment.

Crowns

If some of your teeth are heavily discolored or have suffered damage, your dentist may recommend crowns instead. These are a popular choice for people whose teeth are still stable but are too damaged to cover any other way. Crowns are placed over the top of the natural tooth using dental cement. These dental fixtures are designed to be a long-lasting protection for your teeth.

Veneers

Veneers are made from composite material or porcelain and provide a layer of protection over the front of your teeth. The veneers will look and feel like natural teeth. These are often placed on front teeth if they are badly discolored or damaged. You'll have to have enough tooth surface still intact for the dentist to file away a small portion. This creates a space for the veneer to fit. Veneers are affixed using dental cement.

If you're struggling with discoloration on your teeth and you suffer from thin enamel, you'll want to talk with a cosmetic dentist about your options. He or she will examine your teeth and help you determine which of these procedures would be the best option to help you address your concerns. Working with a skilled cosmetic dentist and taking care of your teeth will help boost your confidence and improve the appearance of your smile.

For more information, contact Dynamic Dental Care Bryan Friedland, DMD or a similar location.