
Many people want brighter smiles, and they might try over-the-counter whitening products and other do-it-yourself whitening methods to try an achieve this goal. However, some stains simply can’t be removed via these methods; in cases like that, you’ll need a cosmetic dentist’s help! At Dentistry in Suwanee, we’re proud to offer Opalescence Take-Home teeth whitening kits that lets your gradually create a beautiful grin while watching TV or relaxing on the couch.
Over time, coffee, tomato sauce and other dark-colored foods and beverages can stain your teeth. There are two types of stains: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are on the surface of the tooth; these can sometimes be removed with over-the-counter whitening toothpastes and mouth rinses. However, intrinsic stains deep within the dentin (the layer under the enamel) can’t be removed this way.
The gels used in Opalescence contain a special whitening agent that enters the enamel and breaks up the bonds between the intrinsic staining molecules, effectively removing them. This effect gradually spreads throughout the tooth, ultimately resulting in a brighter smile.
Each whitening kit includes whitening gel as well as custom-fitted mouth trays. Simply wear the trays as directed for a certain amount of time each day; the exact amount of time may vary depending on the kit you get. Every patient is different, but normally you should be seeing results within two weeks of use.
Teeth whitening methods typically work best on discoloration caused by staining. In general, this means stains caused by things you eat or drink. Some medications such as tetracycline can cause stains as well; these can be a lot harder to remove, but some patients have still found success with whitening kits and in-office treatments.
However, sometimes your teeth may appear yellow due to enamel wearing away and making the dentin layer more visible. In these cases, there aren’t any stain particles to remove, so teeth whitening might not have the desired effect. We can recommend other cosmetic options that might work better in your situation, such as porcelain veneers.
Ready to start taking the first steps towards a new and improved smile? Contact Dentistry at Suwanee today for a consultation!