A common concern of patients is that they wish their teeth could appear brighter and whiter. What causes tooth discoloration? There are two categories of tooth discoloration: extrinsic discoloration, which affects the exterior enamel layer of our teeth and intrinsic discoloration, which affects the inner dentin layer of your teeth (beneath the enamel). The causes of each type of staining are as follows:
- Extrinsic discoloration: Surface staining caused by environmental factors such as food, drink and smoking. Common teeth-staining beverages include coffee, tea and wine.
- Intrinsic discoloration: Internal tooth discoloration caused by dental trauma and certain medications.
The first step to a brighter smile is talking to your dentist. We can determine the cause of your teeth discoloration and see if teeth whitening options can help. Teeth whitening products work best on teeth that have extrinsic staining since this discoloration only involves the outermost enamel layer of the tooth. Brown or gray staining can also indicate more serious dental issues such as cavities or gum disease, so it is important for your dentist to address these issues first to ensure we are whitening a healthy smile. Additionally, whitening treatment can only brighten natural teeth, so it is important to have a dentist evaluate any dental work (fillings, crowns, veneers) you may have to see if whitening is the best option for you to have a bright, evenly colored smile.
Teeth whitening treatments contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. The molecules of this active bleaching agent penetrate tooth enamel, reacting and oxidizing away stains and discoloration. This reaction can cause mild tooth demineralization, which is easily reversed by regular use of fluoridated toothpaste and does not harm the tooth. This reaction can also cause tooth sensitivity due to very mild irritation of the pulp or nerve inside the tooth. Teeth whitening treatment is completely safe, especially when performed under the supervision of a dental professional.
At Katy Trail Dental, we offer several professional, safe and effective teeth whitening options:
Philips Zoom! In-Office Whitening
- Four 15-minute sessions
- Utilizes safe, effective whitening gel enhanced by blue LED technology
- Immediate, noticeable results – up to 8 shades brighter
Opalescence Boost In-Office Whitening
- Two 20-minute sessions
- Utilizes safe, effective whitening gel
- Immediate, noticeable results
Opalescence Go Take-Home Whitening Trays
- Tray applicator helps conform to every smile – no impressions required!
- Ready for use – wear 30-60 minutes at a time for five to ten days to see brighter results
- Whitening gel contains potassium nitrate (for sensitivity) and fluoride (for tooth remineralization and sensitivity)
What to expect at your teeth whitening visit:
- An initial shade will be taken of your teeth.
- A protective gel barrier will be placed on your gums to protect them from irritation by the teeth whitening solution – this application is quick, easy and painless!
- A whitening solution will be carefully applied to your teeth using a gentle, brushed tip. With Zoom! Whitening, a blue LED light will be focused on your teeth to gently enhance the bleaching process.
- A final shade will be taken to record your whitening progress.
Helpful tips for teeth whitening:
- Big event coming up? We recommend scheduling your whitening treatment two to three weeks prior to your event to allow for the best, brightest results.
- Whitening solutions can cause teeth sensitivity. To minimize sensitivity after whitening, your dentist may recommend taking a pain reliever right before your whitening visit. We will assess your medical and dental history to determine a pre-whitening plan that fits your needs.
- Toothpaste for sensitive teeth can be very helpful before and after a whitening treatment. Look for toothpastes that contain potassium nitrate or stannous fluoride, which can have a desensitizing effect.
- Avoid staining foods and beverages after whitening treatment. Drink water regularly throughout the day and continue consistent oral hygiene practices to keep your teeth surfaces clean.
- Be open with your dentist about any questions or apprehensions you may have about whitening your teeth – we are here to help you have a comfortable, gentle whitening treatment experience!
Interested? Call our office at (214) 380-9071 to schedule your whitening visit or mention it to your dentist at your next checkup.
Dentist-Recommended Resources: