3 Options for Whitening Your Teeth

If you feel uncomfortable with your teeth, your outlook may change. You may feel less like smiling in photos or when you meet a friend. Fortunately, it's easy to achieve a brilliant smile when you visit your family dentist for teeth whitening.

Why Teeth Become Discolored

Many patients who enjoy beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine may find that their teeth become stained. Personal habits like tobacco use also lead to tooth discoloration. Medications like tetracycline may create tooth stains. Finally, natural aging leads to a yellowed appearance since the enamel wears away over time to reveal the dentin underneath.

How Teeth Whitening Works

Professional teeth whitening uses a safe peroxide solution to break up stains. The peroxide molecules enter pores in the enamel, eliminating stains from within.

Teeth Whitening Options

In-Office Teeth Whitening

First, the practitioner protects your lips, cheeks, and gums from the solution. They may use plastic retractors and a rubber-like coating.

The next step is applying the peroxide gel to your teeth. Some whitening products require the use of a specialized light to activate the gel, while others are chemically activated.

After the gel works for a set amount of time, the practitioner will rinse it away. They may repeat the treatment two to three times during one whitening session.

After thorough rinsing and a fluoride treatment to remineralize and rehydrate your teeth, you will enjoy a bright, gorgeous smile. The results of professional teeth whitening may last as long as three years if you are conscientious.

At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening

At-home professional whitening uses a gentler version of the exact solutions used in the office. You may receive pre-filled trays or custom trays. Your dentist will provide instructions on how long to wear them to produce the desired results. At-home whitening is more gradual than in-office whitening but produces equally attractive results.

Over-The-Counter Whitening

Many patients believe that over-the-counter products are as safe and effective as professional whitening, but you must use them with caution. Some preparations found online contain high levels of peroxide and can damage soft tissue and cause extreme sensitivity. Strips and toothpaste purchased in a supermarket or pharmacy are safe when used as directed but take much longer than professional whitening to achieve results.

How to Keep Your Teeth Whiter Longer

• Avoid staining foods and beverages
• Quit smoking if possible
• Practice excellent oral hygiene
• Keep all scheduled dental appointments

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

Can I still get my teeth whitened if they are sensitive?

You can receive professional whitening if you have sensitive teeth. Let your dentist know your concerns, and they can adapt your treatment to maximize your comfort.

Can I have my teeth whitened if I have crowns?

Whitening agents only work on natural enamel, so they do not affect crowns, composite fillings, or bridges. Talk to your dentist about whitening options.

Call Cambridge Family Dentistry

We would love to show you how teeth whitening can improve your self-confidence and take years off your appearance. Please call our Cambridge, MA, office at 617-868-7479 for an appointment today.