Teeth Whitening Q & A

Why have my teeth lost some of their brightness?

One of the top causes of tooth discoloration is as simple as time. Your teeth are white because of a thin layer of hard tissue called enamel.  The layer of hard tissue beneath is dentin and is naturally yellow. 

As the years pass, some of your enamel naturally wears away. This allows more of the yellow dentin to show, creating a less white and shining smile. 

Additional factors that cause or contribute to tooth discoloration include:

  • Smoking and other tobacco use
  • Traumatic injury
  • Exposure to high levels of fluoride
  • Poor dental hygiene
  • Foods and drinks that stain, like berries, tea, and red wine

No matter why your smile has dimmed, professional teeth whitening can help.  

How does teeth whitening work?

In-office teeth whitening relies on powerful whitening solutions made available only to dental professionals. Sandra protects your tongue and other soft tissues from harm before painting the solution onto the front surfaces of your teeth. 

Some options rely on a special light to activate the whitening solution. Others simply need to remain in place for a few moments to blast apart stains. In-office teeth whitening can boost your smile numerous shades in just one visit. 

There are also at-home teeth whitening options that allow you to brighten your smile on your schedule. This approach takes longer to achieve optimal results, but you can control the process and stop whitening when you’re happy with the results. 

Simply place a line of whitening gel into the provided trays, then snap the trays in place over your teeth. You can read, watch tv, or do household chores while you whiten. 

How can I maintain the results of professional teeth whitening?

Once you see your newly whitening smile, you’ll want to preserve those results. Begin by embracing a solid dental hygiene routine, which is a critical part of keeping your teeth shining and clean. 

You might also watch your food and beverage choices. You can still enjoy your favorite coffee, tea, or wine, just remember to rinse your mouth afterward or give your teeth a quick brush.

Sandra can also help you find the right products to maintain your bright and happy smile that come from her own line, Camellia Dental Products. When you’re ready to begin, call the office, or visit the online booking page to find a time that works for you.