Who wouldn’t want a bright, white smile? With today’s technology, there are many methods for working toward this goal, and there are also variations in the results. Some methods work better than others for different people. Some are more expensive, some are more trouble, some take longer.
For example, you can simply avoid foods and beverages that tend to stain teeth – coffee, tea, berries, some condiments, tobacco, grape juice, and red wine. Think of it this way: If something can stain your clothing, it can stain your teeth. When you do consume these foods, you might want to rinse your mouth or brush your teeth afterward.
Some toothpastes are partially effective at removing stains. By using them consistently, you may succeed in lightening the shade of your teeth. Be aware, however, that many of these products include abrasive substances that wear away tooth enamel.
Some stains may also disappear when you have your teeth professionally cleaned during dental checkups.
How Aging Affects Tooth Whiteness
Not all tooth stains come from the foods and beverages mentioned above. As we age, our tooth enamel gradually gets worn away, becoming thinner, so that the darker color of the dentin underneath starts to show through. The success of whitening teeth depends partly on how much enamel is still left. Some people are blessed with a thick layer of enamel, which won’t become so translucent. They may have nice white teeth at an advanced age. Others will find their teeth darkening early in their lives.
Internal Staining of Teeth
Some tooth stains are not on the surface where they can be reached by a toothbrush, but are inside the teeth. Such darkening can be caused by injury, by tetracycline use, or by too much fluoride.
KöR® Whitening Deep Bleaching™
At Granville Dental, we recommend professional tooth whitening for our patients. It is fast, effective, and long-lasting, especially with follow-up home care. We use the KöR® system of deep bleaching. Here are some of the reasons:
- KöR® is effective even on tetracycline stains.
- Patients experience low sensitivity to the whitening chemical, or none at all.
- The tooth whitening process is comfortable and easy.
- There is no need to give up coffee, tea, or red wine.
- Results may be permanent – white teeth for your lifetime.
- KöR® is entirely safe for your teeth and gums.
- People aged 14 to 90 are eligible.
For more information, visit the KöR® website .
Ultradent Take-Home Whitening Kits
For a more economical approach, Granville Dental can fit you out with a take-home whitening kit. These may also be used for follow-up after chair-side whitening. More effective than over-the-counter whitening products, these kits are provided by dentists only. At-home whitening, with our supervision includes:
- An initial diagnosis
- Professional teeth cleaning
- Information and instructions on the whitening process and product
- Monitoring of the patient during the treatment phase
Make an appointment at Granville Dental in Granville, Ohio. See Dr. Alexandrunas about the best method of teeth whitening for you. Call (740) 587-4891 or fill out this online contact form.