Teeth Whitening Why Whiten Your TeethThe color of your natural teeth is created by the scattering of light off the outer layer of your enamel. Below the enamel is dentin, another major component of your teeth that is yellow in color. Thinner enamel allows more of the dentin to show through, which can cause your teeth to appear yellow. Your enamel is also porous and can hold stains. Yellow or stained teeth are typically the result of tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, or the consumption of coffee, cola, tea, or red wine. Also, your enamel will naturally thin as you age, and the dentin becomes darker. While the inside of your teeth can pick up stains as well, tooth whitening is most effective on surface stains. Preparation for Teeth WhiteningThe preparation for teeth whitening is quite simple. Before you can undergo a whitening treatment, you should have a professional dental cleaning. All tartar, debris, and minor stains should be removed first. Once this is done, the whitening procedure can begin. We may take pictures of your teeth to help us monitor the progress of your treatment. Tooth Whitening ProcedureWhile you can buy whitening products over the counter, they tend to be less effective. These products contain weaker whitening agents than our products and may take longer to achieve results. Strips and over-the-counter trays are simply less effective than the products you can receive from us. Dr. Walmsley can help advise you on which whitening agents will benefit you the most. In general, grey-brown tetracycline stains (which were previously untreatable) respond only to the KOR system. Patients using Invisalign to straighten their teeth may elect to use their final trays to hold a professional strength whitening gel, others may choose to have these trays professionally fabricated at our office to hold the bleaching gel. Most people with minimal stains respond to using a take home kit of Opalescence that is gently formed around the teeth and worn daily. However, for ultrawhite teeth nothing can replicate the aesthetic of porcelain veneers! Whatever your budget and goals we can help! Schedule Your Appointment Today!If you feel that you could benefit from professional whitening treatment, schedule your appointment today, by calling (865) 248-2199! |
