Your Dentist Explains the Ins and Outs of Teeth Whitening

According to a survey completed by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the number of teeth whitening procedures completed is increasing each year. Your teeth discolor naturally over time, as a result of both your lifestyle and age. Luckily for you, there are a variety of whitening procedures available. Whether you desire results within an hour at your dentist’s office or want a more flexible treatment schedule at home, it’s never been easier to achieve a bright and beautiful smile.

What Stains My Teeth?

It’s difficult to keep your teeth pearly white forever. Common culprits of stained teeth include:

• Food and Drink: Coffee, tea, soda, wine, certain sauces and fruits, and other richly colored foods
• Tobacco: Both smoking and chewing the substance
• Medications: Antibiotics like tetracycline and some chemotherapy treatments
• Trauma: Cracks in your teeth and marks from grinding/clenching
• Environment: Excessive fluoride from both water sources and product use
• Genetics and Advancing Age

How Long Does Whitening Last?

Every patient is unique, so it’s impossible to say exactly how long your teeth whitening treatment will last. Your natural pigment, oral hygiene routine, daily habit and diet, and choice of treatment method are all factors. There is also a rebound effect from most teeth whitening, where your teeth will relapse slightly in shade.

Store bought products generally last for a shorter amount of time. Results can last four or more months, and treatment can easily be repeated. Whitening conducted by a dental professional can last for anywhere from 6 months to 3 years.

What’s the Best Whitening Method?

Not all whitening methods are created equal. As mentioned earlier, professional treatments will likely last longer and can have more dramatic results. Your dentist in Plano offers both in-office and at-home teeth whitening options. For a special occasion or simply the fastest results possible, you should consider in-office treatment.

If you desire a more gradual or flexible approach, your dentist will recommend a take-home system. You will be given custom-made mouth trays that fit comfortably onto your teeth. All you need to do is add the whitening solution and wear the trays for a few hours at a time. The trays are reusable for the upmost ease. Without interrupting your busy schedule, you can enjoy dramatic results in a period of under two weeks.  

You don’t have to suffer through the embarrassment of stained or yellowed teeth. It’s possible to reclaim your confidence and restore your smile in as little as 15 minutes. Talk to your dentist today about which teeth whitening option is best for you.

About the Author

At Parkway Vista Dental, Dr. Bita Kamali has almost 20 years of experience practicing dentistry. She is skilled in preventive, restorative and cosmetic procedures for patients of all ages. If you have further questions about teeth whitening, she can be contacted through her website or at 972-818-1300.