Here at Jeanette Thai, DDS, we can help keep your teeth as white as possible. Over time, your teeth can stray away from bright, white and healthy even if you’re taking proper care of them. That's why we offer professional
teeth whitening to our patients as part of our
cosmetic dentistry services.
Causes of Stained Teeth
Your teeth can change color for a variety of reasons. Teeth-staining foods and drinks such as coffee, tea and red wine all have intense color pigments which can attach to your tooth’s enamel. Tar and nicotine in tobacco have a similar effect.
On top of that, age can also affect your teeth color since the whiter shell (enamel) wears off and the yellowish dentin starts showing through. Trauma can also affect your tooth’s enamel and wear it down, uncovering the dentin.
Finally, medications such as antihistamines, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure medications can also darken your teeth. Exposure to some antibiotics, in children, can also affect their teeth color in their adult life. Chemotherapy can also have some darkening effects.
How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
The whitening process is very simple since whitening products always contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Both of these break the stains into smaller areas so the color seems less concentrated and your teeth look brighter.
However, whitening doesn’t work on all teeth so it’s important to visit us before deciding to whiten them since whitening products may not work for your particular situation. For example, it might not work if your discoloration is the result of medications or injury. It’s also good to know that whitening can work on crowns, fillings, and veneers, and not just your natural teeth.
Teeth Whitening Options
After your assessment with us, if you qualify for teeth whitening procedures, you have four ways to make that happen.
The first one is by using stain removal toothpaste since they have additional polishing agents that are safe for use on your teeth and are effective in removing stains. It’s worth noting that they can’t change your teeth color and can only remove superficial stains.
The second method is in-office bleaching, and you will only need to visit us once. We’ll protect your gums using a protective gel or a rubber shield and then apply bleaching/whitening products on your teeth.
The third method is at-home bleaching approved by us. We can provide a custom-made tray so you can whiten your teeth at home. We’ll also provide detailed instructions, so you know how to place the bleaching solution on the tray and for how long. This might be a better choice if you feel more comfortable at home but still want our guidance.
The final method is using over-the-counter products. You can use toothpaste, strips and other similar products. However, their concentration isn’t as strong as the one we have available for you. So even if you’re considering using OTC options, consult with us first so you can discuss your options for the best results possible and to make sure they are safe. These products are generally not as effective or as long-lasting compared to professional whitening options.
Some people may experience sensitivity if they use any teeth whitening procedures. This often happens since the peroxide contained in the whitener gets through the enamel and reaches the soft dentin layer irritating your teeth nerves. It can also damage your enamel or your gums so be cautious and consult us every time.
To know more about teeth whitening, call the experienced professionals here at Jeanette Thai, DDS at (949) 837-8482 today!
