Teeth Whitening

How can I make my teeth look whiter?
What is teeth whitening?
Is teeth whitening safe?
How long does teeth whitening last?

Your smile is often the first thing someone notices about you, and yet, sadly, many people hesitate to smile because of stained or yellow teeth.

Teeth whitening is widely regarded as the quickest and easiest way to noticeably improve a person’s appearance and help them look younger and healthier.

Whenever there is a dramatic change in the temperature or chemical surface of the tooth, it weakens the natural enamel barrier and allows pigments to penetrate into the pores of the tooth and stain it. “Teeth whitening” is the term used to describe a variety of cosmetic procedures that work to remove the staining - ranging from simple and moderately effective home treatments, to office procedures such as bleaching or laser whitening for faster results or severe discolorations.

• Whitening toothpaste
  Uses mildly abrasive chemicals and polishing agents that remove only surface stains and clean the teeth to make them appear whiter. Does not contain bleach. Helps maintain teeth color after professional whitening, but often no significant whitening using toothpaste alone. Available over-the-counter.
  
  
• Whitening strips
  Sticky tape that you apply to your front teeth. Typically worn twice a day for a half an hour each time. Contains a bleaching solution that lightens surface stains. Moderately effective with repeated use. Available over-the-counter or from your dentist. Strips provided by your dentist contain a stronger concentration of peroxide and will produce faster results.
  
  
• Gel kit or bleaching tray
  Mouth tray that fits over your teeth and holds a concentrated peroxide gel against the surface for a specified period of time. Moderately effective and faster than whitening strips. Available over the counter but many people find it inconvenient and difficult to properly fit the mouth tray, and prefer to get a custom-fitted tray and stronger peroxide solutions available through their dentist for more consistent and dramatic results.
  
  
• ZOOM3! In-Office Whitening System
  Professional whitening gel directly applied to the teeth and accelerated with a special light, gently penetrating the teeth to remove deep stains and discoloration. Extremely effective and immediately noticeable results. Long-lasting, especially when followed by occasional touch-up treatments you can do at home.

Teeth whitening is safe and, when done correctly, does not change the structure of the tooth in any way. The most common side effect is temporary teeth and gum sensitivity. Teeth whitening is not recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating, or anyone who may be allergic to peroxide.

Teeth whitening is not permanent, and in some cases cannot lighten the shade of all teeth, but the majority of patients experience very satisfying results. In cases of severe discoloration or damage where teeth whitening isn’t possible, veneers or crowns may be great alternatives.

After you have your wonderfully white teeth, there are ways to help maintain that brilliant smile.

The most common causes of stained teeth are poor dental hygiene, tobacco usage, high pigment foods and drinks, and natural aging. Less common causes are nerve problems, medications, old fillings, trauma, or excessive minerals or fluoride.

• Most people know about coffee, tea, and berries staining teeth, but did you know that acids from some vinegars, sauces, curries, and citrus fruits can also open the pores and allow discoloration? You can lessen this risk by rinsing your mouth, drinking water, using a straw, and brushing as soon as possible after staining foods and drinks.
  
  
• Brush and floss properly. This might sound obvious, but it is possible to over-brush and wear down the natural enamel of your teeth, causing the underlying, yellow, dentin layer to show. Use soft bristle brushes and avoid overly abrasive toothpastes (this includes some whiteners).
  
  
• Smoking and chewing tobacco causes surface stains that can be removed if caught early, but will eventually cause permanent discoloration if neglected.

If you would like to improve the brightness or color of your smile, talk to your dentist to learn more, and to find out the best options to suit your needs.