Just about everyone wants a prettier smile and whiter teeth. With increased visibility online and in the corporate world with Facebook, LinkedIn, and even YouTube, people are increasingly sharing their face and their pearly (or not so pearly) whites to the world. Teeth whitening helps people stay confident about their smile no matter if they use it to reassure their children or to look good at a televised political rally. In this day and age, everyone takes some interest in teeth whitening. But do you know what teeth whitening entails? Parkcrest Dental Group gives you a quick and easy guide of what to know before your first whitening visit to your dentist in Springfield, MO.
Your Teeth Get Discolored in Two Ways
Teeth don’t darken in color for only one reason. Teeth turn a yellowish color with either extrinsic discoloration or intrinsic discoloration. Extrinsic discoloration occurs when you stain your teeth. Certain beverages and foods will stain your teeth. Be aware that tea, coffee, wine, and cigarettes are common causes of extrinsic discoloration, but your cosmetic dentistry hygienist can remove most stains with teeth cleaning.
Intrinsic discoloration, however, changes the color of your teeth from within. Dentin, the layer of your tooth just beneath the enamel, looks yellowish in color. As you age, this color deepens and enamel thins. The effect of these two processes results yellow teeth. When we think of teeth whitening, we tend to think of strips and gel that reduce intrinsic discoloration.
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Teeth Whitening Won’t Make Teeth Healthier
Though whitening makes your teeth look nicer or healthier, the process doesn’t actually help your oral health. If you have cavities or oral health issues, teeth whitening will not resolve these issues. You should worry about fixing any problems first.
Teeth Don’t Always Whiten Immediately
It may take some time for your teeth to whiten to the level you want. This process could take a few whitenings and patience. Once you finish the process, your teeth should stay white for anywhere between 6 months and 2 years.
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Whitening Doesn’t Work the Same for Everyone
For some people teeth whitening doesn’t make their teeth sensitive, but for others whitening can cause sensitivity or slight discomfort. Some of us need different tray sizes than others because whitening agents can harm gums. Some of us will see results sooner than others. Talk to your dentist in Springfield, MO, to get a sense of what might or might not work for you.
Related Post: Maintaining The Results Of Teeth Whitening
Visit Parkcrest Dental Group Today
If you believe you could benefit from teeth whitening, then chances are you could. Do not hesitate to contact Parkcrest Dental Group to see what type of whitening might be best for you. We’d love to help you work toward a whiter, prettier smile.
