Did you know that smiling is actually good for you? Smiling boosts your immune system, reduces stress, and improves your appearance.
However, many people choose not to smile because they feel embarrassed about the appearance of their teeth. Some people have chipped or missing teeth, while others want to whiten and brighten their smiles.
Teeth whitening is an easy and non-invasive way to greatly improve the look of your smile. Read more about how your Lexington dentist can whiten your teeth today, and find out if it’s for you!
What is Teeth Whitening?
While regular brushing and flossing are enough to maintain oral health, sometimes your teeth need an extra boost. But how do dentists whiten teeth?
Teeth whitening is the process in which you or your dentist use products like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to whiten teeth. This can be done at the dentist’s office or in the comfort of your own home.
In many cases, people choose to see their dentist for teeth whitening instead of doing an in-home kit. This is because the dentist understands how to whiten teeth, the results appear quickly, and the chemicals applied are stronger. However, this is a personal choice and you can speak to your dentist about which method is right for you.
Why do Teeth Stain?
Brushing keeps teeth healthy, but it doesn’t always remove deep-seated stains on your teeth.
Teeth staining has a variety of causes such as the food or drinks you consume, like coffee, tea, soda, and red wine or by tobacco products. These are typically called extrinsic stains which affect the surface of the tooth.
Injury and illness also affect teeth color and are known as intrinsic stains. These lie deep in the tooth and are not as easily removed. They may appear because of medications, tooth decay, or aging.
Seeing your dentist for teeth whitening in Lexington, KY will help you know whether or not your teeth will be resistant to whitening. There are other solutions to solve the problem of intrinsic stains.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Lexington dental care provides a safe and secure environment for you to experience teeth whitening. Here’s what you can expect from both a take-home kit and an in-office appointment.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
With a take-home whitening kit, you can whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home with a kit straight from your dentist. Unlike in-office whitening, however, these kits work over the course of many days and require as much as 30 minutes of dedicated use per day.
Using whitening trays that fit your teeth, you’ll apply the peroxide in the trays and hold them onto your teeth. They do not touch your gums.
Once the prescribed time is complete, you’ll rinse and clean up according to the directions. At-home whitening can be a great option for people who feel uncomfortable being in the dental office. It’s also convenient if you have an upcoming event where you need to look your best because you can achieve results without having to make a trip to the dentist.
Home teeth whitening can also give you a boost before you come in for your official whitening with the dentist.
Call us today to learn more about the in-home whitening kit we have in our dental office in Lexington, KY!
In-Office Whitening
Take-home whitening kits are convenient, but sometimes it’s helpful to have a professional take care of whitening your teeth. If you’re interested in a visit to whiten your teeth, here’s what to expect.
First, you’ll have a deep clean with the dentist. Starting with clean teeth is highly recommended because plaque and tartar build-up will prevent the whitening agent from penetrating your teeth.
After your cleaning, the dentist will insert a retractor in your mouth which keeps your lips away from washing away the bleaching agent. It also allows the dentist full access to your teeth. If you experience any discomfort, tell your dentist.
The dentist will then apply the whitening agent to your teeth and use a high-powered lamp to speed up the process. The peroxide may be applied several times, but most whitening sessions take about an hour or less depending on the desire of whiteness you desire and the products used.
Once you’re finished, you’ll see the results! Your dentist will instruct you on how to care for your teeth to prolong the results. Most likely, you’ll need to abstain from certain foods or drink that stain your teeth and keep brushing and flossing.
Is Teeth Whitening For You?
Teeth whitening is a safe procedure, but in some cases, it’s not for everyone. Not all stains respond to whitening because they’re deeply rooted in the tooth.
Teeth that have bonding or veneers will likely not whiten as well. However, if you’re having any cosmetic dental procedure done, whitening your teeth previously will help your dentist match the veneer or crown.
Teeth whitening may give problems to people with sensitive teeth or may make your teeth more sensitive. You may also experience some gum irritation if the whitening agent gets on your gums.
Overall, discuss with your dentist if there are any serious risks for you if you decide to move ahead with teeth whitening.
Whiten Your Teeth with Your Lexington Dentist!
Whitening your teeth can dramatically increase your self-esteem and even empower you to continue to care for your teeth. Ask your dentist how you can achieve a whiter smile today!
Are you looking for a Lexington dentist? Our team at Garden Springs Dental is happy to help! Contact us today about scheduling an appointment.
