Teeth Whitening
I ask all of my new patients, if they would like to change anything about their smile, and if so what would that be? Overwhelmingly, they say that if they could change one thing, they’d like whiter teeth. As you eat, drink, and generally get older, your teeth are constantly picking up stain. These foods and habits are some of the biggest contributors to staining of teeth:
- Coffee
- Tea
- Dark Soda
- Red Wine
- Smoking
- Tobacco
- Tomato sauces
Some people also have teeth that are more intrinsically stained or colored which usually requires professional whitening or different restoration options such crowns or veneers:
- Tetracycline (antibiotic) use while the teeth were forming
- Fluorosis (too much fluoride in the water) while the teeth were forming
- Decalcified white or brown areas from pre-cavity areas
- Worn enamel letting the underlying yellow color of teeth show through
The good news, is that there has never been a greater abundance of options to whiten your teeth. Before you whiten though, it is important that you understand how the process works. A lot of people waste time or money on products that will not work in their particular situation. Before you go any further, read through the following sections which will guide you through the best options for your particular situation.
Whitening Options Including Over the Counter and Professional Treatments
Whitening Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
