Teeth Whitening FAQs
Today, teeth whitening has become one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures as people are looking for ways to improve their oral appearance. However, with the many options available, which is the best? Where do you start?
Today, teeth whitening has become one of the most sought after cosmetic procedures as people are looking for ways to improve their oral appearance. However, with the many options available, which is the best? Where do you start?
1. How Do The Teeth Get Discolored?
Some people are born with yellow teeth and others develop them due to certain factors such as:
- Loss of enamel due to consuming acidic foods, decay, and insufficient fluoride intake. The thinning of the enamel exposes the yellow pigment, dentine.
- Overconsumption of tea, coffee, wine, chocolate and other foods that can stain your teeth. Our teeth act as sponges and thus they absorb these products and over time it will cause stains.
- Aging causes the dentine to change color and become darker. Dentine gives the teeth its color and if it darkens so will your teeth.
2. What Teeth Whitening Options Are Available?
Several options are available, but all are grouped into two categories: in-office whitening and at-home products.
In-office teeth whitening is done at the dental office. Our dentist uses the whitening solution in combination with the laser light to accelerate the results. We recommend the in-office professional teeth whitening as it is safe and supervised by the dentist. The solutions contain higher levels of hydrogen peroxide, but the dentist will apply the solution meticulously, thereby protecting the gums.
At-home whitening products include mouth rinses and toothpaste that can help whiten the teeth. However, these over-the-counter products are not as effective because either they contain too little or too much whitening agent that can irritate the gums.
We don’t recommend the over-the-counter whitening products because the chance of tooth sensitivity is high. If you want at-home products, talk to our dentist because we offer professional at-home whitening kits.
3. Are The Results Permanent?
No, teeth whitening is not permanent. The results can last between four to 3 years depending on your diet and habits. If you overindulge on coffee, tea, wine, chocolate, and tobacco your teeth can get discolored again.
We recommend having teeth whitening annually along with professional gum cleaning to maintain the results.
4. I Have Dental Restorations; Can I Still Whiten Them?
No, dental restoration such as crowns, bridges, or veneers can’t get whiten. These restorations are tooth-colored, but the color cannot be altered once they are fixed. Our dentist will perform teeth whitening before fixing them.
Other factors that hinder you from getting teeth whitening include:
- Age. Children under 16 years old can’t whiten their teeth as the pulp or nerve is usually enlarged and any whitening procedure can cause sensitivity
- Pregnant and lactating women
- Gum disease and dental cavities
- Worn out enamel and tooth sensitivity
- Allergies
5. Are Baking Soda and Activated Charcoal Effective
Not in the least. Although most people promote and claim that baking soda works, it doesn’t. Baking soda is abrasive and it can erode your enamel hence causing sensitivity. Furthermore, because of the thinning of the enamel, the teeth can become yellow.
Activated charcoal also doesn’t aid in any long-term results. It can temporarily remove stains, but just like baking soda, it also wears off the enamel. Moreover, activated charcoal is not approved by the American Dental Association. This means that its effectiveness and validity are questionable.
6. How Can I Avoid Tooth Discoloration?
Although teeth discoloration is inevitable at times, there are several factors can help prevent its onset:
- Don’t take beverages that can leave a stain. But, if you do, it is important to brush or rinse your teeth after you take them. Plus, avoid tobacco
- You can alternatively use a straw to drink to keep stains away as the liquid will not get in contact with your teeth.
- Get your teeth cleaned professionally during your routine dental checkups
If you want to have a smile makeover and are seeking teeth whitening in Frisco, TX, call us. Our dental team will discuss the different whitening options ideal for you.