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Teeth Whitening FAQ's
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, performed in either a dentist's office or at home with home whitening kits, that can make teeth whiter. The process removes accumulated stains on the surfaces of the teeth and allows the natural white of the enamel to show through. Home whitening treatments include toothpastes, strips, and gel treatments while dental office treatments use gel with a higher peroxide content than home kits.
How do stains form on the teeth?
The stains removed by the whitening process come from a variety of sources. Some people are naturally born with slightly darker teeth than they desire, while others accumulate stains from extended wearing of braces or other dental appliances. Still others get stains from foods and beverages they consume, such as coffee, teas, sodas, or even from smoking cigarettes. Whatever the reason for duller teeth, whitening treatments can help fade some of the staining.
How long will whitening results last?
Once the treatment is complete, you should expect the results to last roughly 6-9 months. However, eating or drinking staining foods, smoking, and other habits, will shorten the lifespan of your whiter teeth. In order to maintain their whiteness for as long as possible, you might cut down on or abstain from smoking, coffee, or sodas. Brushing with a whitening toothpaste may also help keep the whitening results looking their best for longer.
How white will my teeth be?
That striking white smile you might see on celebrities may not look good on you. The shade of white you choose for whitening treatments depends on the amount and types of stains on your teeth, as well as your skin tone. If you want the whitest teeth possible without bleaching, you might talk to your dentist about veneers.
Are there side effects to teeth whitening?
Because whitening opens up the tiny pores in the tooth enamel, it can cause some tooth irritation and sensitivity to extreme temperature changes. Brushing with toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help alleviate this discomfort. Otherwise, you will need to wait for the saliva in your mouth to cause those pores to close naturally.
If you are looking for professional dental care in the Gainesville, GA area, contact Jason C. Croft today!