Teeth Whitening Information

On a sunny weekend afternoon have you ever spent a few extra minutes when washing and detailing your car to scrub the tires? Tires with white lettering or a whitewall. And aren’t you amazed at how it can make a difference in your car’s appearance. Now look in the mirror. Would teeth whitening help your appearance? Isn’t your smile worth more than that car?

Very Popular

Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. You can do it at home with the results you might expect from doing so, or you can have your favorite dental office perform the procedure. How did it happen you ask? Well, if you respond yes to any of these factors you will have your answer. Do you like coffee, tea or red wine? These are major culprits in the staining of your teeth. Have you either smoked or chewed tobacco? Tobacco contains tar and nicotine, both create stubborn stains on your teeth. We hate to admit it, but aging plays a role as well. Over time your outer enamel begins to thin and the surface below called dentin begins to show through. Yes, dentin is yellow. If you have had an injury to your mouth that can become a factor. Your body creates more dentin after the injury. Finally, many medications such as simple antibiotics can have a negative effect on the whiteness of your teeth.

How does the Whitening work?

The whitening product contains a bleach. The bleach breaks the stains down into much smaller pieces. This makes the color far less concentrated and the end result, whiter. By visiting your dentist prior to participating in whitening other dental problems can be assessed. Cavities need to be treated before whitening. Then to have your teeth cleaned only makes sense. The film of bacteria, food or other buildups should be removed. Your dentist will also address if your gums are receding. They can apply a substance that can cover and protect the gums through the process.

More than one visit

Based on the amount of staining you may get by with one appointment, but it would be better to plan on three visits. When you and your dentist determine you are finished you might address whether your gums are sore or your teeth are more sensitive. These are the only two side effects so the risks are very minimal. Both will subside with time.

Following up

Nothing is guaranteed in life. Nor is teeth whitening permanent. If you still enjoy your coffee, red wine or a smoke, the stains will come back. It is a matter of when. You could go an easy six months or a year before you would need a re-whitening. If you schedule regular dental appointments to maintain good oral hygiene, than you’ll be able to monitor the whitening of your teeth. Let’s do it! Scrub those tires and then let’s improve your smile. Time and energy well spent.

Whiten that Smile Today! Contact Iowa Dental Group Today!