Teeth Whitening
Covington, WA
Teeth Whitening provided by Kyle S. Blair, DDS
in Covington, WA at Covington Family Dental
Most people are not happy with the way their smile looks and they are always looking for ways to make their teeth whiter. Our whitening treatments are effective, and for your convenience, we can do it right here at Covington Family Dental.
The options for teeth whitening seem endless, and you also see TV ads for toothpaste that promises whiter teeth in weeks. While some of these claims may be true, not all whitening systems are created equal, and no toothpaste will give you whiter teeth if you don’t take care of your oral health.
Dental cleanings are the first step in maintaining a beautiful, healthy smile. If you skip your routine cleaning appointments, your teeth will start looking yellowish because of plaque buildup. That’s the residue that sticks to your teeth around the gumline.
Why Do Teeth Become Yellow?
Not everyone has pure white teeth. Most people have teeth that are one or several shades lower than white, and this can make them look yellow. Some of the things that can cause tooth discoloration are:
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Smoking or chewing tobacco
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Drinking coffee or tea
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Drinking red wine
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Drinking soft drinks
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Underlying medical conditions
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Certain medications
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Poor oral hygiene
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Fluoride treatments
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Teeth Whitening Options |
The good news is that along with proper oral hygiene habits, there are a couple of different teeth whitening options available.
In-office whitening. The procedure is done right here in our office, and our experts provide you with a safe environment to improve your smile. We use just the right amount of whitening and protect your gums so that your teeth are not overly sensitive after the treatment.
Over-the-counter. If you are looking to whiten your teeth, the number of options available are overwhelming. In general, most products are safe, but you must read the fine print carefully. Unlike the in-office product, commercially sold products don’t contain the same amount of whitening agent we use here, so they’re not as effective.
Is Teeth Whitening Safe?
Our in-office whitening treatments are safe because we control the amount dispensed on your teeth. If you choose to use OTC whiteners, make sure you look for the ADA (American Dental Association) seal of approval. Only use the product by carefully following the instructions. It is essential you only wear strips or trays for the amount of time indicated, or you could damage your enamel.
Whitening toothpastes don't contain carbamide peroxide, the agent we use in our office and only remove stains from the teeth’s surface. Some toothpastes contain blue covarine, a revolutionary chemical that could speed the whitening process.
Be careful with advice from individuals who are not professional dentists. The internet is full of home remedies for everything, including teeth whitening, but some of these methods can severely damage your teeth. Many people like to search for natural ways of doing things, but in doing so can create more problems if the source is not reputable.
The most common side effects from teeth whitening are teeth sensitivity and irritated gums.
If you are interested in teeth whitening or other cosmetic dental services, please call Covington Family Dental at 253.499.6155.
FAQs
What is teeth whitening?Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that lightens the color of teeth by removing stains and discoloration. It can be done in-office by a dentist or through at-home treatments prescribed by a dentist.
How does teeth whitening work?Teeth whitening works by applying a bleaching agent, typically hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, to the teeth. This agent breaks down stains on the enamel and dentin, making the teeth appear whiter and brighter.
Is teeth whitening safe?Yes, teeth whitening is safe when performed by a dental professional or when using dentist-prescribed at-home treatments. It's important to follow the dentist's instructions to minimize any potential risks or side effects.
How long does teeth whitening last?The results of teeth whitening can last from several months to a few years, depending on your oral hygiene habits, diet, and lifestyle. Regular dental cleanings and avoiding staining foods and beverages can help maintain the results.
What are the benefits of teeth whitening?Teeth whitening can enhance your smile by making your teeth appear whiter and brighter. It can boost your confidence, improve your appearance, and make you feel more comfortable when smiling and interacting with others.
Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after teeth whitening. These side effects typically subside within a few days. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth and following your dentist's advice can help alleviate these symptoms.
Can anyone get their teeth whitened?Most people are good candidates for teeth whitening, but it may not be suitable for everyone. People with certain dental conditions, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or sensitive teeth, should consult their dentist to determine if teeth whitening is appropriate for them.
What is the cost of teeth whitening?The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the method used, the dentist's fees, and the geographic location. In-office treatments tend to be more expensive than at-home kits prescribed by a dentist. Consult your dentist for a personalized estimate based on your needs.
Does teeth whitening work on all teeth?Teeth whitening is most effective on natural teeth. It may not work as well on dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have dental restorations, consult your dentist to discuss the best options for achieving a uniform whitening effect.
How can I maintain my teeth whitening results?To maintain your teeth whitening results, practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly, avoid foods and beverages that can stain your teeth (such as coffee, tea, and red wine), and consider using a whitening toothpaste. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are also important for keeping your smile bright. |
