Teeth Whitening
Tooth whitening is a procedure that lightens your teeth and helps remove stains and discoloration. Although tooth whitening dramatically improves the look of your teeth, it is not a one-time procedure. Maintenance treatments are recommended every so often to help you keep your bright, sparkling smile.
Three Categories of Teeth Whitening Products:
Smile Boutique uses Zoom whitening to brighten your teeth in about an hour. The process begins with a thorough cleaning, then your lips and gums are covered for protection. Your dentist applies Zoom products containing a hydrogen peroxide whitening gel and uses a special light that penetrates through the layers of your teeth to break up stains and other causes of discoloration.
At Smile Boutique, we also offer Zoom products for you to use at home. Your dentist can provide custom-fitted whitening trays in one of six concentrates. When used correctly, your teeth become noticeably whiter in just one week.
Available without a prescription, over-the-counter whitening products contain the least amount of bleaching agents. The forms that these products come in include:
• Strips
• Toothpaste
• Pens
• Gums
Regardless of the type of whitening product you use, it is essential to follow the directions and inform your dentist at Smile Boutique of any issues.
Regardless of the type of whitening product you use, it is essential to follow the directions and inform your dentist at Smile Boutique of any issues.
Why Do You Need Teeth Whitening?
The outer layer of your teeth is referred to as enamel. The color of your teeth comes from the reflection of light off your enamel and the color of the dentin underneath it.
Your genes determine both the thickness and smoothness of your enamel. The thinner your enamel, the more dentin color shows through. Whether you have smoother or rougher enamel is also a factor that affects light reflection and the color of your teeth.
Additionally, your enamel contains pores and develops a thin coating, two characteristics that cause your teeth to pick up and hold stains.
These stains often result from:
• Certain beverages like tea and coffee
• Age
• Plaque and tartar
• Tobacco use
• Several foods including pasta sauce, balsamic vinegar, curry, and berries
While tooth whitening is most effective on surface stains, exposure to too much fluoride as a child, as well as certain antibiotics and trauma, also cause your teeth to darken.
For a brighter, whiter smile that improves your self-confidence, call or make an appointment online today with one of the dentists at Smile Boutique in Winchester, MA.
