When it comes to teeth whitening, there are more options than ever before. If you want to brighten your smile, you may wonder how whitening works and whether it’s right for you. Here’s what you should know about this popular treatment and the difference it can make!
Can Yellow Teeth Become White?
Both professional and store-bought teeth whitening treatments have one important thing in common: They both use some kind of peroxide to break up the stains that can form on the teeth.
After the peroxide is applied to the teeth, it is absorbed by two different layers:
- Enamel – This is the hard, thin, protective top layer of the teeth. It has a naturally white hue but can wear down over time for different reasons.
- Dentin – This is the layer underneath the enamel and is naturally yellow in color. When the enamel wears away, dentin can make the teeth appear more yellow.
Whitening treatments with peroxide cannot turn the dentin color to white. But they can break up stain-causing molecules into small pieces. As a result, teeth can appear dramatically whiter and brighter.
What’s Different About Professional Whitening?
One key difference with professional whitening is the strength of the whitening agent or peroxide. Dentists can use a higher concentration than over-the-counter products, which can provide quicker, more dramatic results.
Also, dentists may use other methods to enhance the whitening process. For example, professional treatments may include:
- In-Office Zoom! Teeth Whitening: This innovative approach uses a specialized light to activate whitening gel that is applied to the teeth. As a result, teeth may appear six to 10 shades whiter in just 45 minutes.
- At-Home Professional Whitening: With dentist-supervised at-home whitening kits, you receive custom trays made to fit your mouth precisely. Custom molds help hold the peroxide correctly against your teeth for optimal results.
- The KöR Whitening Deep Bleaching™ System: This system works by combining in-office treatment with at-home treatment. It is highly effective because it addresses the three leading causes of tooth discoloration: surface stains, internal discoloration, and tetracycline staining. Your dentist can advise if KöR Teeth Whitening is right for you.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
An advantage of having whitening done under professional supervision is that your dentist can help ensure that treatments are provided safely and effectively.
Also, many over-the-counter whitening treatments have received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Dental Association® (ADA), demonstrating that they have met required safety and efficacy criteria.
If you’re considering whitening on your own, be sure to look for the ADA seal. Also, remember that too much whitening – or incorrect use of at-home whitening products – can potentially be harmful to your teeth and gums. It’s a good idea to talk with your dentist about whitening to discuss what would work best for you.
Teeth Whitening in Huntersville
For all your whitening and dentistry needs, count on the team at The Smile Architects. We’re committed to providing technologically advanced, family-friendly care in one comfortable place. To set up an appointment or learn more, call us today at 704-875-1621, or contact us online.