Could your smile stand a little improvement? Teeth whitening offers a simple, inexpensive way to boost your smile. The Naperville, IL,
dentists at Dental Pointe answer a few questions about teeth whitening treatment.
Will whitening help my smile?
Teeth whitening is an excellent choice if your tooth enamel has become dull and stained. Some degree of staining is almost inevitable, no matter how well you care for your teeth. Although tooth enamel naturally becomes duller as you age, you may be unwittingly hastening the process. If you're a smoker, or you eat or drink foods and beverages that contain dark pigments, you're at greater risk for dull, stained teeth. Common food and beverage culprits include berries, soy sauce, popsicles, brightly colored candies, coffee, tea, wine and cola.
Luckily, teeth whitening treatment in our Naperville office can remove stains that affect tooth enamel. Hydrogen peroxide, the active ingredient in both over-the-counter and professional whiteners, penetrates tiny pores in your enamel and breaks apart the pigments, leaving your smile whiter.
Is over-the-counter or professional whitening best?
Both types of whitening can lighten your teeth, but professional whitening offers several advantages. Because professional whiteners contain stronger concentrations of hydrogen peroxide than drugstore whiteners, professional whitening results are quicker and more dramatic. In fact, most people notice a three- to eight-shade difference after a single one-hour professional whitening session. At-home professional whitening takes a little longer, but also offers impressive results.
Before your teeth are whitened, they'll be examined and cleaned thoroughly. The exam is particularly important because it can detect dental problems that may be responsible for the changes in the color in your teeth. If you do have a dental issue, it's important to treat it before proceeding with whitening. Cleaning removes plaque and tartar, substances that aren't affected by whiteners. If plaque and tartar remain on teeth when the hydrogen peroxide gel is applied, they'll look mottled or speckled following treatment.
Sensitivity can occur if the hydrogen peroxide touches your gums or roots. Before your professional whitening session begins, a protective gel will be applied to your roots. During the session, small retractors will be used to prevent your lips and cheeks from coming in contact with the whitener. After just 60 minutes, the whitening gel will be removed to reveal a whiter smile.
Are you ready to brighten your smile? Call the Naperville, IL, dentists at Dental Pointe at (630) 333-9571 to schedule your appointment.