Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening, also known as dental bleaching, is a cosmetic treatment that brightens and whitens the smile. Stained and discolored teeth can be brightened with teeth whitening treatments. Most teeth whitening products contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break down and dissolve stains on the tooth enamel. There are several teeth whitening treatments available, and to know what will work best for you, read the answers to a few frequently asked questions about the process. 

• What causes tooth discoloration?

Stains on the teeth can occur from a number of causes. Certain foods and drinks can stain the teeth, such as berries, coffee, tea, and tomato sauce. Smoking or using tobacco products can also stain the teeth. Intrinsic stains are stains on the tooth enamel, while extrinsic stains are stains on the tooth’s outer enamel layer.

• What are the different types of teeth whitening?

If you have heard the term “teeth whitening” before, you may have wondered what types of treatments fall under this category. With so many options, it’s important to know which one would be best for your teeth.

There are many options for teeth whitening. Some options are in-office treatments, take-home treatments, and over-the-counter treatments. Here are some of the options.

1. Take-home whitening kits.These kits are custom-made for each patient. Custom trays are designed to fit over your teeth. The whitening gel is put inside the trays and worn for a period of time.
2. In-office whitening. This treatment is done at the dentist’s office. At the dental office of the dentist in Livermore, CA, a bleaching solution will be applied to your teeth and then activated using a laser or light to eliminate dental stains and brighten teeth by up to eight shades in an hour.
3. Over-the-counter whitening.These treatments can be purchased at your local pharmacy or grocery store. They include bleaching strips, whitening gels, and whitening toothpaste.

• Is teeth whitening safe?

Teeth whitening is safe when performed by a trained dentist like the dentist in Livermore, CA. However, teeth whitening is only recommended for people with healthy teeth and gums. People with sensitive teeth may experience tooth sensitivity with a teeth whitening treatment.

Your dentist in Livermore, CA, will first examine your smile to determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. Your dentist will also go over your dental history to ensure you are healthy enough for teeth whitening treatment.

• How long do teeth whitening results last?

While teeth whitening is very effective, it is not permanent. Your teeth gradually return to their original color after whitening treatments. 

To prolong the effects of teeth whitening, avoid foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth. This includes coffee, tea, wine, cola, soy sauce, and berries. Tobacco products, like cigarettes and chewing tobacco, also cause your teeth to discolor. If you avoid these common teeth-staining factors, your teeth whitening results can last longer. 

• Can I whiten my teeth at home?

You can whiten your teeth at home with teeth whitening kits sold in stores, drugstores, and dentist’s offices. Treatment time depends on how stained your teeth are. Whitening kits containing carbamide peroxide (carbamide peroxide) can lighten teeth but takes more time than your professional teeth whitening treatments by your dentist. Besides, the chances of getting tooth sensitivity are higher as the procedure is not performed by a trained dentist. 

Alta Vista Dental provides the best dental services in Livermore, CA, with the expertise of experienced dentists. Call 925-292-1459 and book your appointment to learn more ways to take care of your oral and dental health.