Teeth Whitening

What causes teeth to become discolored or stained?

Teeth can become stained for many different reasons including the natural process of aging. As you age, the outer layer of the tooth enamel thins through normal wear. This allows the underlayer of dentin to peak through.

Foods and beverages that contain colored pigments -- such as tea, coffee, red wine, and berries -- cause stains on the outside of your teeth. Excessive tobacco use also causes staining, as will some medications.

Products that are high in acids, such as sour candies and soft drinks, can gradually erode tooth enamel. When that happens, your teeth become more susceptible to staining.

Why should you get a dental checkup before whitening at home?

Dental problems such as cavities, cracks, worn enamel, and gum disease should be treated before using a whitening bleach. Otherwise, the bleach can seep into the tooth, harming delicate nerves.

Ask Dr. Deca to assess the type of stain and determine whether an over-the-counter product will work before you buy the product. Certain kinds of stains don’t respond well to commercial products. Additionally, whiteners don’t affect porcelain crowns and veneers.

How does professional teeth whitening compare to home whitening?

Gels and strips available in retail stores contain the same tooth whitening ingredient as your dentist’s treatment, hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. However, they contain a significantly lower concentration of this bleaching agent. As a result, multiple treatments at home don’t get the same results as one professional treatment.

Dr. Deca carefully protects your gums and cheeks when applying whitening products, so you don’t have to worry about irritation. She also makes sure that every tooth is equally covered or uses a customized tray to hold the bleaching agent in place so that you get optimal results. Professional whitening is also achieved more quickly thanks to lasers or special lights that quicken the effect of the bleach.

What is a smile makeover?

A smile makeover is a series of treatments designed to simultaneously correct multiple dental issues. The goal is to completely rehabilitate your mouth and improve the appearance of your teeth – whatever type of dental procedure that entails.

Teeth whitening is one of the most common procedures in a smile makeover. Other procedures may include veneers to correct cracks and gaps, crowns to protect and strengthen teeth, Invisalign to straighten teeth and correct misalignments.