A bright, white smile is something many people want to achieve, but stubborn tooth discoloration or a yellowish color can be a problem for many individuals. Teeth discoloration is something many people may observe over time, due to factors such as age or other habits.
Professional teeth whitening also addresses these difficult stains, yielding a superior, more lasting result for an individual’s smile. Whether due to coffee, tobacco, or aging, professional teeth whitening treats deeper layers of stains, restoring an individual’s smile to a brighter, more brilliant state.
What Causes Stubborn Yellowing?
Stained or stubbornly yellowed teeth most commonly develop from several causes. Some are due to our lifestyle, and others are natural. However, by understanding how such stains form, you can take the most important step towards a whiter smile through professional treatment.
- Aging: We realize that as people age, the enamel layer of their teeth naturally wears away over time. This means that people’s teeth naturally take on a yellow color since dentin is naturally yellow.
- Dietary Habits: Coffee, tea, red wine, and certain fruits can stain teeth over time. This causes stains to build up, which become hard to remove from teeth with regular brushing.
- Tobacco Use: If you are a smoker or tend to chew tobacco, you may notice an intense buildup of yellowness or even brown coloration on your teeth. These stains are usually difficult to remove.
- Medications: Some medications, such as antihistamines, antihypertensives, and chemotherapy agents, may cause staining that may not be removed by over-the-counter products.
The Power of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments, on the other hand, are specially formulated to counter teeth that have turned yellow. A cosmetic dentist in Midwest City, OK, is capable of providing safer, more effective, and long-lasting treatments than what is available for purchase over-the-counter by virtue of:
- Tailored Treatments: As mentioned earlier, all teeth are different, so are people when it comes to teeth. A cosmetic dentist will assess your dental health and determine what works best for your teeth, whether you have surface or deep staining.
- Stronger, More Effective Agents: Professional treatments use stronger agents that penetrate deeper into enamel, breaking down stains on a molecular level.
- Safety and Comfort: While performing teeth whitening in Midwest City, OK, cosmetic dentists closely monitor the procedure to minimize the risk of gum sensitivity and damage. It is conducted in a controlled environment to make the procedure as safe and effective.
- Faster Results: Unlike over-the-counter teeth bleaching treatments, which require a weekly regimen, you can achieve noticeable results in just one sitting with a professional teeth-whitening service. Results are often dramatic immediately after!
The Limits of Over-the-Counter Whitening Products
The large number of whitening products at your drugstore can be confusing. These products include whitening toothpaste, toothpaste strips, and toothpaste gels. All of them can whiten yellowing teeth. The problem is that they are ineffective at removing stains or discoloration. Here’s why:
- Surface Stains Only: Over-the-counter teeth-whitening products usually work by removing surface stains caused by drinks and foods. However, if your teeth have deeper stains, such as those caused by smoking and aging, the products may not penetrate deeply enough to have any effect.
- Inconsistent Results: These products are not specifically geared toward your needs, leading to inconsistent results from one person to the next. Some may find an improvement, while others will not notice a difference at all.
- Risk of Sensitivity: Overuse and improper application of these whitening products may cause sensitive teeth that can irritate the gums. Normally, these teeth-whitening products are not designed with personalized dental care in mind.
The Whitening Process Explained
If you select professional teeth whitening services, the following may be expected during the procedure:
- Consultation: Cosmetic dentistry starts with a consultation. Your dentist will examine your teeth to assess discoloration and may request X-rays and details about your lifestyle habits.
- Customized Treatment: Depending on your dental needs, the cosmetic dentist will provide in-office treatments such as Zoom Whitening or take-home trays precisely designed for your teeth.
- Procedure: An in-office whitening session usually involves applying a potent whitening gel to your teeth, then using a special light to accelerate the process. The session will take about an hour and can significantly whiten your teeth in a single session.
- Follow-Up Care: After the procedure, you will receive aftercare instructions from your cosmetic dentist, including advice on maintaining your smile and preventing further staining.
Why Choose Professional Whitening Over At-Home Solutions?
When it comes to achieving a brilliant white smile, there are many advantages to in-office whitening compared to at-home products and procedures. It is individualized to meet your needs, is quicker and lasts longer, and treats tougher stains, not to mention.
- Long-Lasting Results: Unlike other teeth-whitening products, professional teeth bleaching can deliver longer-lasting results without requiring repeated use.
- Controlled Environment: You’re in a controlled environment with a professional, where the treatment is monitored to ensure the best possible outcome.
- Better for Deep Stains: Professional bleaching treatments can remove both surface and deeply embedded stains.
Revitalize Your Smile with Professional Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can provide you with an effective, personalized solution to teeth that continue to have a stubborn yellow color, especially when whitening treatments are not as effective on your teeth as they are expected to be.
If you’re tired of fighting stains and want to see real results, it’s time to think about a whitening procedure. Schedule an appointment with Midwest Smiles in Midwest City, OK, and take the first step towards a whiter, healthier-looking smile!
Questions People Ask About Professional Teeth Whitening
How long do the results of professional whitening last?
The results of professional teeth whitening typically last from several months to a year, depending on your oral habits. Regular maintenance, such as avoiding staining foods and drinks, can help extend the results.
Are there any side effects to teeth whitening?
Some people may feel mild tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after whitening, but these effects are temporary. Following your cosmetic dentist’s aftercare instructions can help minimize discomfort and ensure the best results without long-term side effects.
Can I use whitening toothpaste after the procedure?
Yes, you can use whitening toothpaste after your treatment. However, choose a gentle formula to avoid irritation. It’s always best to consult your cosmetic dentist before using any post-whitening products to ensure they’re safe for your teeth.
How often should I get my teeth professionally whitened?
Typically, professional teeth whitening is recommended once or twice a year. However, the frequency depends on factors like diet, oral hygiene, and the results you’re aiming for. Your cosmetic dentist can suggest the best schedule for you.
Can whitening treatments damage my teeth?
When performed by a professional, teeth whitening is safe and won’t damage your teeth. The cosmetic dentist ensures proper care and uses appropriate products to protect your enamel, minimizing the risk of side effects or harm to your dental health.
Will teeth whitening work on veneers or crowns?
Teeth whitening treatments only affect natural tooth enamel. They won’t change the color of veneers, crowns, or other dental restorations. If you have these, your cosmetic dentist may recommend alternative options to match the rest of your smile.
