HOW DOES TEETH WHITENING WORK?
Teeth whitening is a great way to eliminate tough stains and yellowing. With teeth whitening from Tree of Life Dentistry in San Marcos, you can reverse years of discoloration. You’ll feel better about your appearance, look younger, and be more confident.
The secret to teeth whitening is a type of compound called a “peroxide.” Peroxides like carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide react violently when they contact stains on your teeth. They snap the bonds that hold the stains in the pores of your enamel, restoring its natural white appearance.
Read on to learn more about teeth whitening, or contact us for an appointment with Dr. Parul Shridhar to explore your cosmetic dentistry options in more detail.
DID YOU KNOW…
Drinking beverages through a straw can help prevent stains.
ready to schedule your appointment?
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM THE TEETH WHITENING PROCESS
COSMETIC CONSULTATION
First, you’ll come into our office for an appointment with Dr. Shridhar to explore your cosmetic dentistry options. Teeth whitening is a great option for restoring your smile, but it may not be right for everyone.
IN-OFFICE WHITENING
In-office whitening takes just one appointment. Dr. Shridhar will protect your gums, tongue, and cheeks from the whitener. Then, she will apply a thin layer of whitener to your teeth and activate it with a UV light. The whitener will be rinsed away, and this process will be repeated several times to reach your desired level of brightness.
TAKE-HOME WHITENING
In take-home whitening, Dr. Shridhar will take impressions of your teeth to fit you for a set of custom whitening trays. You’ll come back in a few weeks to pick up your trays and a set of whitening products. Then, you’ll follow her instructions to whiten your teeth. Most patients whiten their teeth for about an hour per day over 2-3 weeks.
MORE ABOUT TEETH WHITENING
benefits of in-office whitening
benefits of take-home whitening
benefits of in-office whitening
In-office whitening delivers the fastest results, so it’s a good choice if you need to whiten your smile for a special occasion like a wedding or a business conference. Depending on your situation, you could whiten your teeth up to 5-10 shades in just one appointment.
benefits of take-home whitening
Take-home whitening tends to be a bit cheaper than in-office treatment. You also can whiten your smile more gradually, and in the comfort of your own home. This also may be a better option if your teeth are sensitive, since the whitener is not as powerful. Some patients find that this helps reduce discomfort during teeth whitening.
DID YOU KNOW…
Teeth whitening can last up to a year!
ready to schedule your appointment?
HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT TEETH WHITENING? FIND ANSWERS HERE.
DOES TEETH WHITENING CAUSE SENSITIVITY?
Some sensitivity is normal both during in-office and take-home treatment. This will resolve itself within a few days of your treatment ending. Dr. Shridhar can provide you with instructions on how to mitigate sensitivity and stay comfortable during your treatment.
HOW DO I KEEP MY TEETH WHITE?
The most important thing is to brush twice a day and floss once a day. Keeping your teeth clean prevents the buildup of plaque and stains. You can also incorporate whitening toothpaste and mouthwash into your routine to keep your teeth bright.
You should also see the team at Tree Of Life Dentistry for a teeth cleaning every six months. This helps keep your teeth bright, white, and healthy. You should also quit smoking and tobacco use, as this will quickly ruin your newly-brightened smile.
You may also want to adjust your diet. Reduce your intake of staining beverages like wine, tea, and coffee. You can also drink these beverages with a straw. This minimizes contact with your teeth, which helps prevent stains.
DID YOU KNOW…
Most whitening toothpastes can only get your teeth about one shade lighter.
think you may need an extraction?
