Teeth Whitening Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure for individuals with faded or yellow looking teeth. Generally, this is not a great option if you have had other dental restorations or procedures, but ask us at Leavenworth Family Dental if you are a candidate. We can explain home whitening procedures available but can also get you scheduled for professional whitening treatments at our office. We will also give you advice on maintaining your white teeth.Home WhiteningThere are many over-the-counter whitening options available for you. These include toothpaste, strips, gels, rinses, and whitening kits. Whitening toothpaste removes surface-level stains on the teeth through the inclusion of mild abrasives. These do not contain bleach, but they do have a mild chemical agent that provides further polishing. Whitening strips contain a gel that can also sometimes be used on its own. This gel has peroxide which helps to whiten the teeth. You can generally see results within the first few days and your teeth should remain white for about four months. Mouthwashes and rinses also have peroxide. You would use these twice a day for about one minute at a time. It may take up to 12 weeks to see any results. Whitening kits come with a tray and a gel whitening solution. This gel contains peroxide. These kits are more involved, being worn anywhere from a few hours a day to several days at a time. Professional WhiteningFor more severe cases, or those looking for more permanent results, we recommend in-office whitening treatments. We have access to stronger agents and can also monitor the condition better. With our whitening process, we apply a whitening substance directly onto the teeth. We then use a laser, light, or heat to activate the whitening agents in the substance that will bleach your teeth and remove stains. This is typically the best way to achieve results. In general, you can see at least some results within a single appointment. However, for more severely discolored teeth, multiple treatments may be needed. Each appointment typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. MaintenanceWhitening could last for months at a time, but it is never a permanent procedure. We will explain this timeline to you and provide more information on preventing tooth discoloration. Diet plays a huge role in tooth discoloration. Certain pigmented fruits or sauces can cause your teeth to fade or become yellow, as can dark-colored drinks. Sugar and acidic foods wear down the enamel. Sugarless gum is great for oral health as it helps to neutralize these acids, but also promotes saliva production. Saliva is necessary for cleaning the mouth naturally. Leafy or high-fiber foods can act as an abrasive which helps to polish the teeth. There are also other factors involved. Smoking and chewing tobacco, in addition to being a major threat to your health, can cause tooth discoloration. Genetics also plays a role in the color of your teeth, so you may need whitening treatment even if you maintain your diet and habits perfectly. For additional information on teeth whitening and discoloration prevention, call Leavenworth Family Dental at 913-682-1550 today. |
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