Professional Teeth Whitening in Hollywood, Florida
Since it is considered a cosmetic treatment, teeth whitening may not be a priority for some people as part of their dental health. However, dentists know how the importance and effect of a white teeth on their patients. Whether or not you are an eligible candidate for this procedure, here are some important things to consider.
Causes of Teeth Discoloration
Some might say that it’s normal to have yellowish teeth, and they aren’t wrong. Having really pearly whites is quite rare. Few people actually have naturally sparkling white teeth. However, there are certain levels of tooth discoloration and when you cross the line between yellowish and stained teeth, it might be time for teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is a very effective way to restore the natural whiteness of your teeth.
Why do teeth become discolored? Common causes may include:
- Consumption of caffeinated beverages (coffee, tea, cola)
- Consumption of certain, strongly pigmented food and drink (red wine, apples, blueberries, tomatoes)
- Smoking tobacco
- Radiation and chemotherapy
- Mouthwashes which contain cetylpyridinium chloride and chlorhexidine
- Certain medications like antihistamines, sulfa-based drugs and drugs for hypertension
- Excessive fluoride
- Old age
While most of these cases don’t damage the teeth, if you don’t fix the problem now, it will only get worse and affect your overall attitude and self-esteem.
How to Fix Discolored Teeth
If you notice that your teeth are very discolored, or almost an ochre hue, it may be time to consider teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be done in a number of ways and Dr. Gordon can discuss with you the best whitening treatment options for your case.
1. Plastic Whitening Trays
This method is best for those with mild to moderate discoloration. It’s a relatively simple process that can be done in the comfort of your own home. First, visit our dental clinic. We will take an impression of your teeth which when hardened, will be used as a mold. Once the whitening trays have been made based on the mold, you will pick them up from our clinic along with a special whitening gel which you will apply to the whitening trays. These trays with whitening gel will be worn over your teeth for several hours per day according to Dr. Gordon’s recommendations. You may wear the trays any time of the day that will be convenient for you, as long as you follow the instructions properly. It is important to follow the treatment protocol to ensure best results within four to six weeks. This process is easy, painless and cost effective.
Prolonged wearing of the whitening trays however can cause gum sensitivity. This is completely normal since the trays are foreign objects which can cause friction on the gums. Simply stop using the whitening trays for a few days then, once your gums have healed completely, resume.
2. In-Clinic Accelerated Whitening
For patients who are not willing to wait for weeks to whiten their teeth, there is a faster, more efficient method of whitening called Accelerated Whitening. This process is done in the dentist’s clinic. It is a non-invasive procedure which is completed in about an hour. This process is highly effective for those who have extremely stained teeth and would like to resolve their teeth discoloration immediately.
The procedure takes place in the dental office. The teeth will be cleaned thoroughly and a whitening gel will be applied on the teeth. This gel contains hydrogen peroxide which works as a bleach. Dr. Gordon uses a special light against the gel which creates a chemical reaction that deeply penetrates the teeth, removing the stains and restoring the natural whiteness.
The gel application will be done three times, for about 15 minutes each. After the procedure, you can resume to your regular daily activities without any side effects. The great thing about this teeth whitening option is that it’s very quick and also provides the best results. The teeth can reach up to six times whiter color as compared to dental trays that only reach three to four times. It’s also the longest lasting procedure with effects lasting for years. You won’t need to repeat it several times in your lifetime which makes it a good investment.
3. Porcelain Laminates/Crowns
Some cases of teeth discoloration are completely irreversible. An example would be dental fluorosis which causes yellow stains on the tooth enamel. Sometimes individuals acquire this from their infancy, when improperly fluoridated water is used to make infant formula. Others may acquire this from using toothpaste that has very high fluoride content, or from swallowing too much fluoride toothpaste.
Where the surface of teeth have become mottled due to fluorosis, porcelain laminates or crowns can be used to cover the exterior surface of the teeth. However, laminates and crowns can cost a bit more than whitening treatments. Although, with the advances in dental technologies, they do provide excellent results.
Benefits of Teeth Whitening
If you’re wondering why you should spend your time and money on teeth whitening, here are some of the benefits associated with this procedure:
You will have increased self-esteem. Looking at yourself in the mirror will be more pleasant if you see the reflection of those pearly whites.
You will want to smile more often. Bright white teeth will make you more confident to smile and talk to people around you. Having white teeth will really bring out the happiness in you and the beauty in your smile.
You won’t be afraid of talking or showing off your teeth. With teeth whitening, you won’t have to worry about people noticing your yellowish teeth, and you won’t be afraid to have your picture taken at office and family get-togethers.
If your discolored teeth are affecting your confidence and social life, undergoing teeth whitening treatment may be an option for you . To find out if you’re a good candidate for this procedure, visit our office in Hollywood, Florida, and receive a consultation with Dr. Karen Gordon. She can give you expert advice on teeth whitening and help you decide what’s best for your case.
Call us today at (954) 613-9837 for any inquiries about this procedure.
