When you take good care of your teeth, you floss and brush multiple times a day! Yet somehow, this isn’t enough to keep your teeth sparkling and white. You aren’t the only one who’s encountered this problem. That’s why many dental professionals offer Teeth Whitening services. Say goodbye to yellowed teeth and hello to a brand new you! Learn everything about the teeth whitening process.

Why Are My Teeth Yellow?

There are a few factors that contribute to lackluster teeth. One of the main reasons teeth yellow is from age. Your teeth are protected by a hard outer shell called enamel. This weakens the older you get, due to activities like brushing. The dentin, the softer area underneath the enamel, starts showing through. This area is naturally yellow and leads to a strange hue.

Take a step back and examine your diet. What you eat and drink has a direct impact on your teeth. Do you drink a lot of beverages like wine, soda, coffee, or tea? These are some of the major causes of staining. They contain color pigmentations in them, known as chromogens. The pigmentations attach to the enamel, creating a discolored appearance.

Smoking is bad for your entire body, including your oral health. Tobacco contains two specific chemicals known as nicotine and tar. Nicotine by itself is a colorless substance. When you combine it with tar, which is naturally a darker shade, it creates a yellow, sticky texture.

Lastly, trauma and medication are other possible factors. An injury to the mouth can create bruises like anywhere else. Your body produces more dentin to protect itself from harm. Certain medications also create unappealing changes to coloring as a side effect. Ask your doctor about prescriptions for antihistamines, blood pressure, and antipsychotics. Certain antibiotics in children produce a similar effect.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

The entire process is quick and painless. Some people find it so relaxing that they watch TV, read, or even nap during it! Whitening products contain bleaching agents. When applied to the teeth, the chemicals break apart the stains. The yellow coloring becomes less apparent and gives off the impression of a whiter smile.

What Are the Different Types of Teeth Whitening?

There are three major types of whitening processes: over-the-counter bleaching products, in-office bleaching, and at-home bleaching.

Over-the-counter is the more affordable option but it produces lesser results. The bleaching agent has a lower concentration, meaning it doesn’t whiten teeth very much. These are products like whitening strips or toothpaste.

At-Home Bleaching is the next best thing. Schedule an appointment with your dentist to receive your custom kit. This includes whitening trays directly customized to your teeth. The bleaching solution is placed in the tray, which is then put in your mouth. Your dentist will tell you how long to leave the tray in and how much solution to use. The entire whitening process spans anywhere from days to weeks.

The recommended option is In-Office Bleaching. This is the safest and strongest way to whiten your teeth. It requires only one visit with your dentist. A protective gel or rubber shield goes on your gums. The bleach is then carefully placed on. These appointments take a little over an hour but you’ll notice the effects right away!

Contact Us for Teeth Whitening Services and More

If you want to learn more about teeth whitening services, contact us today! Your smile is a direct reflection of you, why not make it look amazing?