Teeth Whitening Treatments and Maintenance

Having healthy looking, white teeth is the key to a confident smile.

How your diet can lead to tooth discoloration.

When dark foods and drinks sit on the teeth long enough, they can seep through the enamel and into the next layer called the dentin. The top teeth-staining foods are coffee, tea, red wine, and tobacco, since these tend to be held in your mouth the longest. If you have to have a cup of coffee  in the morning, brush your teeth immediately afterward.

Find the treatment that's best for you.

Today, the terms "whitening" and "bleaching" seem to be used interchangeably, but there are major differences. "Bleaching refers to products that contain hydrogen peroxide to whiten the teeth further than their natural color. Whitening, on the other hand, restores the tooth's surface color by removing debris in the form of mouthwash or toothpaste.

In order for the inner layer of dark stains to be removed, the bleaching solution, in-office teeth whitening, needs to stay on teeth long enough for it to penetrate deeper into the teeth to break apart the molecules of the stain. Therefore, in office bleaching has longer-lasting effects than simple whitening systems and tends to be more expensive.

How to maintain your newly-whitened smile.

Avoid any teeth-staining foods and drinks, along with tobacco, for as long as possible. Snack on apples, pears, strawberries, celery, carrots, and any kind of raw veggie or fruit. These foods produce saliva that will help remove bacteria and clean your teeth. Chewing gum that contains Calprox can act as a detergent, stimulating saliva flow and fresh breath. After each meal, swish with water for 30 seconds to wash away stains and debris left behind from the food that you ate.

For your teeth whitening appointment, contact Oyster Point Dentistry.

Real Beauty Magazine