Blog

Teeth whitening is a very effective way to enhance your smile by lighting the shade of your teeth. It’s one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedures because it can significantly improve how your teeth look. Many dentists recommend having a professional tooth whitening procedure every six months to prevent stains from building up on your teeth and keep them bright all year round.

Professional teeth whitening at Paradise Family Dental uses a more potent bleaching agent than at-home kits so that you will see results much faster. Most patients see a difference after just one session; however, those with more severely stained teeth may need more than one treatment to get desired results. In-office whitening usually lasts longer, as your dentist will likely use a higher bleach concentration during the procedure. While at-home whitening products will typically need to be used daily or twice daily for up to two weeks to see any improvement, in-office treatment can last for months. After your treatment, your dentist may recommend using take-home trays to brighten your smile between appointments.

The Causes of Teeth Discoloration

Tooth stains and discoloration can be caused by various things, including what you eat and drink regularly. Certain foods can stick to your teeth and cause staining, such as coffee, red wine, and blueberries. Tobacco use can also cause tooth discoloration. As you age, the enamel on your teeth can become thinner or worn. This can allow the yellow-colored dentin underneath to show through. This is why older people tend to experience yellower teeth more than younger ones. Your smile is your first impression to the world, and if you’re unhappy with how it looks, you should investigate cosmetic dental treatments, such as a tooth whitening treatment.'

The Procedure for Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure in which your dentist applies a chemical compound to the enamel of your teeth to lighten the color. The active ingredient is usually hydrogen peroxide, but the most effective products contain carbamide peroxide. Although this chemical is considered safe for external use, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should consult with your healthcare provider before having the procedure done.

During a professional teeth-whitening procedure, the dentist first cleans the teeth and removes plaque buildup. Next, the tooth surface is evenly coated with the compound and then exposed to a special light for a certain amount of time to activate the lightning process. In some cases, multiple applications of the bleaching solution may be needed to achieve the desired results. After the procedure, it is essential to avoid staining foods and drinks for at least a few days following the treatment. Beverages such as coffee, tea, soda, red wine, and certain fruit juices can cause the teeth to discolor more quickly than usual. Smoking can also affect the color of the teeth and should be avoided. Additionally, tobacco products can lead to decay and gum disease, damaging your smile's appearance.

For more information on teeth whitening and how it can benefit you, visit Paradise Family Dental at 4900 Paradise Way, Suite 104, West Richland, WA 99353, or call (509) 581-0626. We’re always happy to answer your questions and help whiten your smile safely and effectively!