Do you think about teeth whitening every time you look in the mirror? If you are unhappy with the way your teeth look, your dentist can help. You no longer have to avoid being around people or smiling. Professional whitening can improve the color shade of your teeth and get rid of those ugly stains. There are a few things you should know about this cosmetic dentistry process before you get started.
How teeth discolor
A tooth is naturally white, but it is not uncommon for them to turn yellow, brown, or even gray. Over time, wear and tear and other factors can discolor teeth, making them an undesirable color. This can be embarrassing for people and even hinder a person’s self-esteem. Teeth do not change colors suddenly, but the process happens gradually over several years.
Poor brushing habits can contribute to staining. Excessive consumption of liquids such as coffee, tea, cola, and wine can have the same effect. Eating certain foods such as berries and tomato sauce are big culprits as well. Smoking can leave unsightly stains on teeth too.
Deciding to do teeth whitening
The prospect of getting whiter teeth has attracted people with increasing interest during the past decade. Health and wellness companies have sold products such as toothpaste and mouthwash that claim to whiten teeth. These can work, but professional methods are more effective. People who want to pursue this treatment should speak to their dentist. The dentist will go over the process, including the benefits. The dentist and patient will discuss whether it makes sense for the patient to move forward with the procedure.
Preparation
If both the dentist and the patient feel positive about doing a teeth whitening treatment, the dentist will schedule an appointment. Here, the dentist will make impressions of the person’s mouth to make trays that the patient can take home. Or, if it will be an in-office treatment, the dentist will evaluate how much whitening will be necessary to achieve the patient’s goals. The dentist and patient will talk about improving the color shade of the individual’s teeth. Most treatments will whiten a person’s teeth by at least two shades, though some may do even more. The results will vary from patient to patient and will depend on the severity of the person’s discoloration.
How teeth get whiter
Most teeth whitening treatments use a solution of hydrogen peroxide. The dentist will apply this in gel form. The hydrogen peroxide will penetrate deep into the person’s teeth. It will then start to break down the molecules that cause discoloration. In most in-office treatments, the dentist will use light or heat to activate the chemicals.
Whiter teeth can be close
The goal of having whiter teeth does not have to be a dream. You can improve your smile now with a professional teeth whitening treatment. Your dentist can discuss with you what color shade you hope to achieve. Soon, you could enjoy a new look that you can be happy with.
Request an appointment here: https://sonorandesertdentistry.com or call Sonoran Desert Dentistry at (480) 439-0117 for an appointment in our Scottsdale office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Teeth Whitening in Scottsdale, AZ.
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