You may notice that your teeth become dull or stained over time. This may occur due to a number of factors, including the natural aging process, poor oral hygiene, foods and drinks that stain, smoking and other tobacco use, illness, the use of certain medications, or fluorosis (excessive fluoride consumption).
Patients have more teeth whitening options than ever before thanks to store-bought treatments. These options do provide some degree of whitening, but they contain weaker bleaching gels than the kinds of options available at our office. This is why over-the-counter and at-home whitening solutions take many uses over days or weeks to deliver visible results. Buying drugstore alternatives such as whitening toothpaste, rinses, whitening strips, and kits can also add up over time. A session at our office can provide instant results that may take weeks and multiple at-home treatments to achieve, saving you time and money.
Yes, teeth whitening is a very safe procedure. Millions of people safely and comfortably whiten their teeth each year. We use a peroxide-based bleaching gel that is specifically formulated to brighten teeth and strengthen enamel without causing damage or pain. Our dentists want you to leave our office with healthier teeth than when you arrived, and that applies to cosmetic procedures, as well!
Generally, no! Teeth whitening is a very comfortable procedure for most patients. You may experience some temporary sensitivity in your teeth after whitening, especially if you have issues with increased tooth sensitivity. However, your dentist takes every precaution necessary to minimize any discomfort you may feel. We use gentle products that lift stains from your teeth without causing irritation.