A bright, white smile is seen as a symbol of health and youth. It can boost self-confidence and lead to better relationships, as well as help in obtaining jobs and promotions. Fortunately, teeth whitening near me is a safe and quick procedure that can restore a natural, pearly glow to your smile. Our team offers the Philips Zoom teeth whitening process, which can remove both extrinsic and intrinsic stains in just one 45-minute session. Professional teeth whitening offers more consistent and long-lasting results than store-bought products, and it is safer to use since it does not pose risks like irritated gums or teeth sensitivities.
Most people develop tooth discoloration as a result of consuming dark-colored foods and drinks, using tobacco, and neglecting to brush and floss regularly. The most common causes of dental stains are iron oxide, calcium carbonate, and hydroxyapatite, which are minerals found in hard water. These minerals can stain enamel and dentin, which can make teeth appear yellow. Other discolorations are caused by pigments such as those found in coffee, red wine, tea, and tobacco. Extrinsic stains can be removed through a whitening treatment, while intrinsic stains may require restorative treatments such as composite resin fillings or crowns.
During a whitening treatment, the whitening gel is applied to the teeth and activated with an LED light. Depending on the severity of the stains, we can lighten the teeth by up to eight shades in just one appointment. We also offer at-home whitening kits, which allow patients to whiten their teeth in the comfort of their home and at their convenience.
Our office follows strict safety protocols when performing a whitening treatment. Before a patient starts a whitening regimen, we perform an oral exam to ensure that they do not have any cavities or untreated gum disease. Untreated dental problems allow the whitening solution to penetrate deeper than it is supposed to, which can cause tooth sensitivity and pain.
The whitening gel contains hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down the molecules in enamel and dentin that make teeth appear yellow. After the whitening procedure is complete, we will provide you with a care kit that includes mouth guard trays to prevent teeth from reverting back to their original color. We recommend brushing twice a day, flossing once, and using mouthwash to reduce plaque and sensitivity. You should also schedule regular dental cleanings and checkups to keep your smile in its best shape.
If stains are too severe for a whitening treatment, we can replace them with a cosmetic treatment such as veneers. This is an ideal solution for smokers, as dental veneers are stain resistant and will not yellow as quickly as the natural teeth underneath them. We recommend scheduling touch-up whitening appointments at six-month intervals to maintain your newly white smile.