If you are considering professional teeth whitening and you live in or near Foothill Ranch, CA, Dr. Riad at Foothill Family Dental offers the services you are looking for.

What kinds of stains can professional whitening help?

Two kinds of stains can affect the color of your teeth; extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains result from colored compounds that accumulate on the enamel. They are usually the result of lifestyle choices such as smoking or chewing tobacco. They can also be caused by poor care of your teeth, highly colored foods and drinks, and exposure to metal salts.

Intrinsic stains happen inside the tooth and are usually damage to the enamel or the dentin. They can be the result of genetic disorders, antiseptic mouthwash, trauma, or aging. Talk to your dentist about the kinds of stains teeth whitening in Foothill Ranch, CA, can correct.

Does anything need to be done before getting teeth professionally whitened?

Before teeth whitening, go to your dentist for a professional cleaning. The procedure works best on teeth that are free of plaque and tartar.

How long does it take to whiten teeth?

If you are getting your teeth whitened in the office, it can take as little as one hour. If you are doing an at-home treatment provided by your dentist, it can take weeks or months depending on the amount of staining you have and how often it is applied. The at-home method is also good for the maintenance of an in-office procedure.

Is everyone a good candidate for professional teeth whitening?

Not everyone is a good candidate for professional teeth whitening. Keep in mind only natural teeth respond to whitening and brownish stains respond much better than gray ones. If you have tooth restorations such as crowns, implants, or bridges, the color will not respond to whitening.

How long does teeth whitening last?

There is no one simple answer to this question. In general, it can last between 6 months and 3 years. The average time for whitening to last is about a year but it depends on your lifestyle and how well you care for your teeth. Discuss this with Dr. Riad before you have your whitening done. He can give you suggestions for getting the most from your dazzling new smile and keeping it that way as long as possible.

For teeth whitening and other dental services in Foothill Ranch, CA, Foothill Family Dental and Dr. Riad have an experienced team to provide the dental services you are looking for. Call for an appointment at (949) 273-8600.