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What causes tooth discoloration?
Many factors make teeth lose their luster, from poor dental hygiene, genetics, aging, tobacco use, medication, tooth trauma, and stain-causing food and drinks. Stains on your teeth can be classified as extrinsic or those that appear on the surface of your teeth or intrinsic which live in the cracks in your enamel and the layer below it. While toothpaste and at-home care may remove some of the extrinsic stains, only teeth whitening agents can remove stubborn stains.
Not only is teeth whitening effective, but it can drastically change your smile and self-esteem at the same time. Let's look at the different options, in-office bleaching, Teeth whitening trays, strips, and lastly toothpaste.
In-Office Bleaching
In-office bleaching is the strongest and quickest solution to whitening your teeth. In-office systems contain 15% to 43% peroxide and can make your teeth dramatically whiter. In your 30-60 minute office visit, your teeth can become three to eight shades brighter!
We use Opalescence boost in our office which is two to three 20-minute applications.
Will this cause increased sensitivity?
Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of whitening. This sensitivity is temporary and should disappear after the whitening is completed.
Will this cause problem by weakening teeth?
No! Teeth whitening will not weaken your teeth. Opalescence contains PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride) which has been shown to reduce sensitivity and strengthen the enamel.
Teeth Whitening Trays and Gels
The teeth whitening trays are the most affordable whitening method. Georgetown Smile uses Opalescence Treswhite Supreme, a powerful whitening gel that comes in pre-filled disposable whitening trays. These trays come with 10% or 15% hydrogen peroxide gel. Simply insert the trays in your mouth and wear for the recommended time and your teeth will be whiter and brighter in no time! Trays are worn from 15 minutes to one hour per day anywhere from 5 to 10 days.
Teeth Whitening Strips
Over the counter teeth whitening strips come in varying hydrogen peroxide concentration. These range from 6% to 14 % concentration. Strips are worn 30 minutes a day for up to fourteen days, and results may vary. The main difference between the OTC systems and the professional systems is the way in which the chemically active gel is applied to the teeth.
Teeth Whitening Toothpastes
Every toothpaste is mildly abrasive, helping remove stains from teeth. Whitening toothpaste has polishing agents and chemicals which can help scrub stains from teeth. Whitening toothpaste can brighten teeth by about one shade.
Talk with Dr. Peretz about which whitening treatment is best for your smile, lifestyle, and budget. Teeth can whiten at different rates so we recommend a consultation before proceeding with whitening. Dental supervision includes an initial diagnosis, teeth cleaning, briefing and monitoring through the treatments.
Call Georgetown Smile at (202) 333-0003 to schedule your consultation or book your appointment online today!