One of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments, teeth whitening is a great way to get professional results. Many over the counter products promise to whiten teeth, and may help to some degree, but often fail to achieve the brighter smile you’re looking for.
For people who want to address stains, discoloration, or dullness, professional teeth whitening is one option that is proven to be effective. With both in-office and at-home formats, patients of R. Renan Williams, DDS have choices when it comes to your treatment.
Why Do Teeth Become Stained or Discolored?
Everyday foods and drinks, including coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and certain sauces, can contribute to staining over time. Other factors like natural aging and lifestyle habits can also affect the brightness of your smile. Understanding the type and severity of discoloration can help determine which whitening option may provide the best results.
Professional Teeth Whitening Options That Actually Work
When it comes to teeth whitening, you have probably seen many products in stores and online ads, promising dramatic results. Professional teeth whitening generally provides more noticeable and predictable results than standard over-the-counter products.
There are two main types of professional teeth whitening:
- In-office: administered in a single appointment at your dentist’s office. A rubber shield or gel is used to protect the gums while the whitening agent is applied. A special light is used to accelerate the whitening process. Application is carefully controlled to ensure safety and customized results.
- At-home: administered yourself using a customized mouthguard provided by your dentist to ensure even application. You will apply it daily according to your dentist’s instructions, usually around 2 weeks, until you achieve your desired results.
- Renan Williams, DDS offers both in-office and take-home whitening options, allowing you to choose an approach that works best with your needs and schedule.
What About Whitening Toothpaste, Strips, and Other Store-Bought Products?
Common over the counter teeth whitening products include:
- Toothpaste. Some toothpastes include whitening ingredients, such as hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to remove surface stains.
- Strips. Clear plastic strips containing a whitening agent can be applied to your teeth. This is the most effective over the counter product available.
- Mouthwash. When used with whitening toothpaste, mouthwashes can sometimes enhance your results.
- Gels. Wands or pens allow you to apply a whitening gel to your teeth, but can easily rinse or rub off.
Some store bought products may help reduce surface stains but may not provide the same level of whitening as professional treatment.
Whitening toothpaste can be particularly useful for helping maintain results after professional treatment, but it is not as effective as the initial professional whitening treatment.
How Long Can Teeth Whitening Results Last?
The results of teeth whitening are not permanent. The longevity depends greatly on your habits following treatment, such as:
- Mindful eating. We recommend limiting staining foods and beverages like coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and tomato sauce.
- Oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day can help to remove food residue before it leads to staining, especially when you use whitening toothpaste.
- Regular professional cleanings. Teeth cleanings and dental exams help maintain a healthy, bright smile.
Is Professional Teeth Whitening Right for Everyone?
Good candidates for whitening treatment have healthy teeth that don’t need restorative care. Any restorative procedures must be completed before whitening, such as fillings or root canals. It is important to note that whitening does not change the color of fillings or dental prosthetics and may be less effective for certain severe stains.
A professional evaluation can help you set realistic expectations and select an appropriate cosmetic treatment. R. Renan Williams, DDS takes a personalized approach to cosmetic dentistry, which focuses on helping patients feel informed and confident about their treatment options.
Find the Right Teeth Whitening Option for Your Smile
It can be tempting to try over the counter products because they cost less and are easily accessible. However, no product you can buy at the store will achieve the same results as professional treatment. Whether you prefer a single in-office appointment or a take-home kit, our teeth whitening treatment offers dramatic results that can last for years.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
Does professional teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
Some patients may experience temporary sensitivity following whitening. We recommend using sensitive toothpaste when needed following treatment. Sensitivity typically subsides within a few days to a few weeks after treatment.
How quickly will I see teeth whitening results?
The timeline depends on the whitening method selected. In-office treatment is designed to deliver noticeable results quickly, while take-home treatment offers a more gradual approach.
Can teeth whitening remove every type of stain?
Professional whitening can improve many forms of discoloration, but severe or certain types of stains may respond differently. A dental evaluation can help determine whether whitening or another cosmetic option is more appropriate.
Will teeth whitening change the color of crowns or fillings?
Whitening treatments do not change the shade of existing fillings or dental prosthetics. Patients with visible restorations should discuss this with their dentist before treatment.
How can I keep my teeth white after treatment?
By maintaining good oral hygiene, scheduling regular professional cleanings, limiting stain-causing foods and drinks, and using whitening toothpaste when appropriate, you can extend the longevity of your results.
At R. Renan Williams, DDS, we are committed to helping our patients achieve healthy, confident smiles through personalized, compassionate dental care. With more than 3 decades of experience serving North Richland Hills and the surrounding community, we provide comprehensive dental services in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Whether you are interested in teeth whitening or maintaining your long-term oral health, our team is here to help you find the care that fits your needs. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.