Are you frustrated by stubborn stains on your teeth that you can’t seem to brush away? Many people in your shoes turn to over-the-counter whitening strips or gels, but there’s no guarantee that you’ll achieve the desired shade. Also, some folks have developed tooth sensitivity from misusing or overapplying products.
Thankfully, your dentist can provide cosmetic services to help you lighten your smile safely, like professional teeth whitening or veneers. But how do you know which method is best for you? Continue reading to learn more about each, so you can make an informed decision!
What is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Instead of relying on diluted bleaching agents, your dentist has access to professional-grade gels to help you remove years’ worth of stains from your enamel. These ultra-concentrated whiteners are designed to maximize impact while minimizing potential sensitivity to brighten your grin without causing harm. In-office whitening sessions can lift your teeth by several shades in just three 15-minute sessions. Or, if you prefer, your dentist can provide a take-home kit with top-quality materials and a custom-fitted application tray for an optimal outcome from your living room.
The results of professional teeth whitening typically last anywhere from 6 months to 3 years, depending on your habits. Brushing and flossing twice daily removes plaque to prevent additional staining while maintaining your new hue.
When Is Professional Teeth Whitening Best?
After frequent, prolonged, or repeated exposure to dark foods and drinks, your teeth can start to take on a deeper tone. Pigmented particles can cling to the plaque on your enamel to discolor them. These extrinsic stains exist on the outermost layer of your teeth and can typically be addressed with topical whitening provided by your dentist.
However, some blemishes that originate or sink into the lower layers of your teeth (intrinsic discoloration) may not respond to surface treatments. In these instances, your provider might recommend another solution, like veneers, to mask imperfections.
What are Veneers?
Veneers are thin ceramic shells attached to the front surface of your teeth to hide aesthetic flaws like chips, cracks, stains, and minor gaps or overcrowding. They’re customized to be just the right size, shape, and shade to enhance your appearance. Plus, they’re coated with a glaze that is durable enough to resist a certain amount of damage and discoloration.
For these prosthetics to fit correctly, your dentist must remove a small amount of enamel from your teeth. It doesn’t regenerate, making this a permanent change to your grin. Fortunately, your restorations provide an extra shield to protect your teeth and can last 15+ years, making them an excellent long-term solution.
If you’re wondering which method is right for you, the best way to find out is to schedule a consultation with your dentist!
About the Practice
At Kemper Meadow Family Dentistry, people of all ages benefit from two dentists who work together to offer a wide array of services conveniently under one roof, including cosmetics. Dr. Alexandra Kulwin and Dr. Jasmina Maric are active members of the American Dental Association and many other prestigious organizations, so you know your smile is in good hands. They combine a gentle and caring approach with state-of-the-art equipment to enhance patient comfort while delivering accurate results intended to last. If you’re interested in addressing aesthetic flaws, you can request a consultation on the website or call (513) 648-9900.