Teeth Whitening
Whitening procedures have effectively restored the smile of people with stained, dull, or discolored teeth.
The darker tissue of your teeth, the dentin, can become exposed as the outer layer of enamel is worn away by the effects of aging or things like caffeine and tobacco.Food particles are naturally attracted to a tooth’s enamel by a certain protein. Products like coffee and tea, berries and soy sauce are notorious for staining teeth. Over time, teeth actually become more absorbent and vulnerable to staining from food and other substances.
Understanding Tooth Stains
Intrinsic Stains (Internal)
One type of stain — caused by traumatic injuries, medications and fluorosis — actually begins inside the tooth; brushing and flossing don't help remove these stains.
Extrinsic Stains (External)
Another type of stain — one that can be more easily attacked by brushing, flossing and rinsing — is caused by external factors such as foods.
More and more people today are choosing tooth-whitening procedures to reverse the effects of aging and abuse from food and tobacco stains.
Common Staining Culprits
Whitening Options
Whitening Toothpastes
Some commercially available "whitening toothpastes" can be somewhat effective at removing stains and making teeth a few shades brighter. However, many of these products have abrasive substances that can actually wear away your tooth's enamel.
Bleaching Agents
Bleaching agents actually change the color of your teeth, but only are effective on certain types of stains. For example, bleaching agents have a difficult time removing brownish or grayish stains. These products also are not as effective on pitted or badly discolored teeth, or on restorations such as crowns, bridges, bonding and tooth-colored fillings.
Professional Bleaching — The Best Option
Professional bleaching performed by our office is considered to be the most effective and safest method; done properly, tooth whitening can last as long as five years. Over-the-counter whitening systems are somewhat effective as long as they are monitored and directions followed closely.
When Whitening May Not Be Effective
Bleaching agents are not always the best solution. In certain cases, alternative treatments like porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be more appropriate:
Bleaching agents have difficulty removing these types of discoloration.
Surface irregularities can affect whitening results.
Severe discoloration may require veneers or bonding.
Crowns, bridges, bonding, and fillings won't respond to whitening.
Why Choose Professional Whitening?
Most Effective
Professional-grade whitening agents deliver superior results compared to over-the-counter products.
Safest Method
Under professional supervision, your teeth and gums are protected throughout the process.
Long-Lasting Results
Done properly, professional tooth whitening can last as long as five years.
Customized Treatment
Your dentist can tailor the treatment to your specific needs and desired results.
Brighten Your Smile Today!
Reverse the effects of aging and staining with professional teeth whitening at New Smile Dental.
(310) 674-5555Schedule Your Appointment Today!
New Smile Dental
405 S. La Brea Avenue
Inglewood, CA 90301