What it's like to live with
People with stained, pitted teeth often hear "you must not be brushing properly". Many have heard it since school. So they stop smiling with their mouth open.
The question that mattered
Was this enamel damage from childhood, or decay? And was anything going on under the surface?
What we looked at
The teeth up close, and a 3D scan of the jaw. The lower front teeth had root fillings, and the scan showed a dark area in the bone below them (the arrow).
What we decided, and why
Anything under the surface comes first, before any cosmetic work. Then the front teeth could be covered, so the colour and shape are even.
What we did
The front teeth were covered with new, tooth-coloured restorations.
What you see now
Even, natural-coloured front teeth.
What this means for you
If your teeth have looked like this since childhood, it's very likely not your fault. Covering them is possible, and a scan first checks what you can't see.
Every mouth is different. Your plan depends on your own scan.
These photos were taken during surgery. Some show blood.
Questions people ask
Why are some teeth stained and pitted from childhood?
Often the enamel didn't form fully while the teeth were growing. Some medicines taken in early childhood are a known cause.
Is it because I didn't brush well?
Usually not. This kind of damage starts before the teeth even come in.
Can these teeth be fixed?
Yes. Crowns or veneers can cover them. Your check-up decides which.
Talk it through with our doctor
Want to understand your options? Sit with our doctor, Dr. Varsha or Dr. Rajesh, at Kondapur or Vizag. No treatment on the first visit unless you choose.
Kondapur: Dr. Varsha Reddy. Vizag: Dr. Rajesh Kumar Y.
Treated at Smile Super Speciality Dental Clinic (Kondapur, Hyderabad and Visakhapatnam).