Professional teeth whitening provides a brighter smile by removing stains from tooth enamel. These procedures can improve the appearance of the teeth after discoloration from food and lifestyle habits, and results depend on a consistent oral hygiene routine and making mindful choices regarding diet. Here is more information about teeth whitening, how it works, and how to maintain the results:
Causes of Discoloration
There are many different factors that may affect the color of the teeth, and some are good candidates for teeth whitening. External staining agents in foods, such as coffee and red wine, can contribute to the dulling of tooth enamel over time. These foods contain intense color pigments that attach to the white, outer part of the tooth. Tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco, are known to turn teeth yellow or brown.
Internal factors and medical conditions might impact the shade of your smile as well. Certain antibiotics may cause tooth discoloration if taken during childhood when teeth are still developing. Medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, sometimes lead to a darker tooth appearance. The natural aging process also causes the outer layer of enamel to thin, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath it. Teeth whitening may address some of these causes of discoloration, and a dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening.
Function of Teeth Whitening
Whitening treatments utilize peroxide-based agents to penetrate the porous surface of the enamel. These chemical agents reach the discolored molecules located deep within the tooth structure. Oxygen molecules from the whitening gel react with the discolored molecules, breaking the bonds that hold them together. This reaction makes the teeth appear whiter.
Types of Whitening Treatments
Patients can choose between several methods to achieve a brighter appearance, and each method differs in results and the strength of the whitening gel used. In-office professional treatments offer the fastest results by using highly concentrated bleaching gels. These sessions typically take about an hour and are performed under the supervision of a dental professional. Some dentists also provide professional at-home kits that include custom-fitted trays for a more gradual whitening process.
Retail products, such as strips and toothpaste, are often available in stores to use at home. Whitening strips use a thin layer of peroxide gel applied directly to the surface of the teeth. Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives or chemical agents that help remove surface stains during daily brushing. While retail products are less potent than professional treatments, they can assist in maintaining a bright smile between dental visits.
Maintenance of Results
Establishing a consistent at-home care routine helps prolong the effects of a whitening treatment. Using a whitening toothpaste once or twice a week can prevent new surface stains from settling into the enamel, and drinking water after consuming dark-colored foods or beverages rinses away pigments before they cause discoloration. Maintaining a schedule of professional dental cleanings every six months removes plaque that can trap stains.
Mindful dietary and lifestyle adjustments may help preserve a white smile. Here are a few steps to help keep your teeth bright:
- Use a straw when drinking iced coffee or soda to minimize contact with front teeth.
- Avoid using tobacco products.
- Brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily.
- Choose light-colored foods like poultry, rice, and clear liquids immediately following a treatment.
Learn More About Teeth Whitening
Scheduling a consultation allows a provider to assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment for your needs. A dentist can discuss the different options for whitening treatments with you and explain the benefits of each option. Establishing a consistent professional relationship helps you protect your dental health and maintain a brighter smile. To learn more about teeth whitening, consult a dental professional near you.
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