Teeth become discolored for many reasons, including taking certain medications, over-fluoridation, inconsistent dental hygiene, consuming staining foods and beverages, smoking, and aging. Extrinsic stains are those that are caused by outside factors that we can control like smoking, diet and poor hygiene. Intrinsic stains are those that are created from inside of the tooth and are more difficult to resolve. Teeth whitening is a wonderful option for many of these tough dental stains.
There are a multitude of choices available when it comes to teeth whitening. Over the counter products or systems purchased on the internet offer a varying degree of benefit. But to derive the maximum result, a consultation with your cosmetic dentist will provide the information needed to make the best choice.
The first step to whiter teeth is a visit with the dental hygienist. A dental prophy will result in the plaque and tartar that has built up on teeth to be removed as well as the stains produced from coffee, wine, cola, smoking and eating foods that stain like berries. Once your teeth have been cleaned and polished by a dental professional, you are ready to proceed with whitening.
In office teeth whitening offers the fastest and most effective solution available. However, for patients that wish to whiten at home, your dental provider can assist you with a take-home plan.
Acquiring teeth whitening products from your dentist has many advantages:
• Knowledgeable staff available to answer questions.
• Safe, tested products with no concern about their origin.
• Products with powerful whitening agents only available through your dental provider.
For those more stubborn intrinsic stains, in office whitening provides the patient the strongest whitening solution available. The process starts with a protective barrier being placed to shield the soft tissues of the mouth from the whitening solution. The teeth are coated and a laser or curing light is applied to hasten the whitening process.
These steps are repeated once or twice more in an effort to achieve the brightest smile possible. It is not unlikely for the patient to realize up to eight shades of improvement in one in-office treatment.
Maintaining that new smile requires daily brushing and flossing, consistent dental office visits, and a keen awareness of the foods and beverages that can tarnish that new “wow” smile and developing habits to avoid them in the future.
Contact the office of Dr. Daggula at 817-465-0355 to schedule your teeth whitening appointment today.
