Teeth can be whitened successfully at home or in your dentist’s office. But, over-the-counter teeth whitening options can be far less effective than options provided by your dental team.
Professional teeth whitening is the best way to make your smile all bright again.
Most people will find that they experience stains and yellowing of teeth at some time in their lives. So, if your teeth are yellow or stained, effective and easy professional teeth whitening is the simple solution.
Teeth whitening improves the way your teeth look while providing a brighter and more youthful looking smile. Professional teeth whitening doesn’t harm your teeth at all.
What Causes Stains on Teeth
Teeth grow stained over time for a variety of reasons, including:
- The foods and drinks you consume, such as coffee, tea, red wine, berries, citrus fruits, or carrots
- Medication such as tetracycline
- Smoking
- Over-using fluoride and causing mottled white spots on teeth
- Age
Regardless of why teeth grow stained, however, professional teeth whitening is a simple solution.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The fastest way to whiten your teeth is with a single visit to your dental office. Your dentist can whiten your teeth by up to 8 shades. Treatment is quick because a special laser light will activate the bleaching agents that your dental team carefully applies directly to the surface of your teeth. The result is as rapid as it is attractive.
At-Home Teeth Whitening
A professional, take-home whitening kit that your dentist can provide for you is another excellent option for teeth whitening.
Unlike over-the-counter teeth whitening kits, which may not be effective or can actually cause harm to your teeth, a professional take-home whitening kit is a good choice, particularly if you’re only experiencing some minor stains or limited discoloration. Your dentist provides a kit with a set of personalized whitening trays, which will come with a bleaching gel, and the instructions you need to use your kit at home.
Take-home teeth whitening kits can also be used along with an in-office treatment, to maintain your bright new look with on-going teeth whitening.
Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?
Teeth whitening is not permanent, but in-office treatment can last as long as three years. And you can extend the attractive, whiter look of your teeth by staying away from tooth staining food and beverages and practicing excellent oral hygiene.
Extending the look of your whitened teeth includes:
- Receiving regular professional dental cleanings every six months
- Brushing and flossing twice a day
- After whitening, avoid dark colored food and beverages for a week
- When you can, sip dark beverages such as red wine and tea through a straw
- Follow your dentist’s recommendations for follow up or maintenance whitening
So, if you practice good dental hygiene habits, professional dental procedures last longer.
Ready to Learn More About Teeth Whitening?
Whether you’re looking for in-office or at-home professional teeth whitening, our dental team is ready to help. We’re experts at cosmetic dental services including the professional teeth whitening you need for the bright new look you want. Call us today!