Having a bright white smile is all that is needed to boost confidence and have a positive influence on one’s life. The problem is that most people don’t have naturally pearly white teeth. And since no one wants to go through life with lips closed, many turn to teeth whitening.
If you have never tried it before, here is everything you need to know about how teeth whitening works.
Why Teeth Become Stained
We aren’t born with stained teeth, so what causes them to become so discolored? Even those who brush and floss regularly find themselves struggling to maintain a white smile. There are actually many different factors can contribute to the staining, including:
- Foods that are acidic or contain heavy dyes
- Acidic beverages like coffee, tea, red wine
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Tobacco use, whether chewing or smoking
- Aging/Genetics
- Certain medications and medical conditions
Regardless of how they appeared, teeth whitening treatments can often remove stains, leaving you with teeth that are shades whiter.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional teeth whitening treatments involve a whitening agent strong enough to give you results in just one visit. Peroxide is one that is commonly used and it contains oxygen molecules that penetrate the stain and dissolve any bond it has to the enamel. The result? The stain is removed and the tooth’s white enamel returns.
There are stains found in the inner layers of the tooth known as intrinsic stains that will not be responsive to whitening treatments. Your dentist will be able to tell you whether or not the stains you are dealing with will be able to be removed from your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening Treatment
There are different types of teeth whitening treatments available, some that work better than others.
Professional in-office whitening treatments are often the most effective option as they can allow you to see your teeth shades whiter in just one session. They often involve placing the bleaching agent on the teeth and then activating it with a laser. Though treatment may also use gels in trays. They are quick and painless treatments done under the care of a professional.
At-home professional whitening treatment is purchased from your dentist, but performed at home. They generally take longer to see results - or may be used in between your in-office treatments to maintain a healthy level of whitening. These are still effective treatment options.
Over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments that you buy in the toothpaste aisle of your local discount or grocery store are quite ineffective. You may see your teeth whiten a shade or two over an extended period of time. But if you are looking for noticeable results, this is not the way to go.
Teeth Whitening Treatments on the Upper WestSide
A teeth whitening treatment may be all you need to boost your confidence and feel good about yourself. And there is no better way to do that than with the team at Smiles on the Upper Westside. Treatment options including GLO Professional Whitening and Kör® Whitening allow for professional treatment both in-office and at-home - with quick, effective results.
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at 212-222-5225.