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(949) 760-0363  
1310 Bison Ave  
Newport Beach, CA 92660
  

Teeth whitening INfo

 

  What is "teeth whitening?"
Teeth whitening is the purely cosmetic process of bleaching one’s teeth to give them a whiter appearance. Several methods can be used in teeth whitening procedures, including a number of over-the-counter products and in-office bleaching processes. Different wording is used on the take-home products to describe the different forms of whitening. “Whitening” typically describes the process of restoring teeth to their natural color, while "bleaching" usually means the process will whiten teeth beyond their natural state.

What causes teeth to become discolored?
Teeth naturally darken over time due to various reasons. Smoking, drinking dark beverages, and wearing braces for a prolonged period of time can leave discolorations and stains on teeth. Even after the whitening process, teeth will likely continue to become discolored. Consuming less coffee and dark tea and refraining from smoking may help extend the length of time teeth will stay white after being whitened.

Is teeth whitening safe?
Chemical agents used in whitening products today do not weaken or strip enamel and are not harmful to teeth. Some bleaching gels may have high amounts of peroxide, which may cause sensitivity of teeth and gums. Before starting a teeth whitening process, one should make an appointment with their dentist to check for any weak areas in the teeth. Sometimes additional work is necessary before undergoing a bleaching procedure. Discuss any concerns or questions you may have with your dentist.

How can I whiten my teeth?

There are two main categories of teeth whitening procedures: over-the-counter and in-office work. Store-bought products are generally more affordable than in-office work and include a variety of options. There are peroxide-based gels used in bleaching trays that cover the teeth, whitening strips, paint-on whitening gels, and specialized whitening toothpastes. In-office work can be more expensive, but often involves the use of higher concentration peroxide, which may result in more noticeably whiter teeth than from over-the-counter products. There are also some procedures which can only be done in a dentist’s office, such as laser whitening. A third option comes in the form of professional take-home teeth bleaching kits. These kits are cheaper than in-office procedures, but involve the same amount of customized treatment, using custom molded trays that fit to perfectly match your teeth. Talk to your dentist about which procedure is best for you.


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