Choosing to whiten your teeth is a way to brighten your smile and boost confidence. Many patients look for a process that lasts the longest and requires minimal maintenance going forward. Teeth whitening options include in office whitening systems, systems you take home given to you by your dentist, and over the counter treatments. Talking with your dentist about your goals can help you to choose the best treatment that will work for you.
Teeth whitening targets two types of stains. The first is intrinsic, and this type of discoloration is more permanent and caused by an injury, medications, or fluoride overexposure. Intrinsic stains can be harder to whiten and may not respond well to teeth whitening. The other type of stain is extrinsic. Extrinsic stains are stains on the surface or outer layer of enamel. This type of stain is caused by dark liquids or foods. The best way to treat both types of stains is with a professional tooth whitening system.
The systems provided by your dentist in their office are typically the strongest and long lasting treatments. They offer the most dramatic results and are quicker compared to other methods. Typically this type of whitening treatment takes less than an hour, and uses a light to activate the gel to penetrate deeply into your teeth. Once you have completed the in office process you can opt to take a whitening treatment kit with you. This allows patients to keep up with their whitening treatments at home.
Many in office treatments can target both intrinsic and extrinsic stains giving patients amazing results in little time. In office treatments can brighten teeth up to 16 shades lighter and the results last longer. In some cases depending on the treatment used, touch up treatments afterwards are not required.
The first step to whiter brighter teeth is scheduling a consultation in our office. This gives our doctor the opportunity to examine your teeth and gums, and determine if you are a good candidate. Our team discusses each patient’s goals, and we work with you to choose the whitening system that will work best. Documenting your progress from start to finish is a great way for patients to track their results.
Take that next step to a whiter smile, and inquire about our whitening treatments. We care about your oral health and want you to be proud of your smile.
To schedule your teeth whitening consultation, contact our office, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you.