Teeth whitening treatment is one of the most popular practices in cosmetic dentistry. It is a quick, noninvasive, and affordable way to enhance your smile. Whitening treatments can provide a great solution to discoloration and there are many whitening treatments available for your budget and time frame. Your options for teeth whitening include professional treatments done in your dentist's office or treatments done at home. Seek a consultation with one of our teeth whitening Portland dentists at Hunter Dental Care. We can guide you to the treatment that best suits your needs.
At Home Whitening Treatments Are Safe To Use
During a whitening treatment, carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide may be used to permeate your hard dental issues and whiten your smile. At-home teeth whitening treatments may have peroxides in amounts ranging from 10 to 20 percent and you should choose a product with a peroxide level somewhere in between that range.
If the product you choose does not give your desired effect, and also does not bother your mouth, you can try teeth whitening treatment with a higher level of peroxide.
Teeth Whitening Options
Some common at-home whitening products you can use include rinses, gels, strips, toothpastes, and even chewing gum. There are multiple forms of teeth whitening products to choose from.
Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste contains hydrogen and carbamide peroxides and can lighten your teeth up to one shade. Although all toothpaste contains the whitening factor, these are specifically for this role and you should therefore use them on a prescription basis.
Whitening Gels and Strips
Another option is whitening gels and strips, sold over-the-counter. The gels are clear and contain peroxides which enhance the whitening process. You need a small brush to apply to the teeth twice a day depending on the dentist's instructions. With at-home whitening gels, the process goes for up to 14 days while the results start showing in four months.
Whitening Rinses
Whitening rinses act by lessening gum disease and plaque, and freshening the breath. You only need to rinse your mouth with the whitener for at least two minutes before brushing. Whitening rinses take about 12 weeks to notice results.
Tray-Based Whiteners
Tray-based whiteners are yet another form of teeth whitening. It comes with a tray where you fill the bleaching gel containing peroxide and wear it for several hours a day. The period might be longer when the extent of coloration is high. Tray-based whiteners take at least four months to see the results while using the tray method.
Professional Whitening Treatment
If you're looking for the most dramatic results, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. Our team of experts can brighten your smile up to eight shades in just one visit! We use a safe and effective hydrogen peroxide gel that's gentle on sensitive teeth. In addition, we often recommend a mild whitening treatment plan for sensitive teeth that includes custom-made trays and a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide.
Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening is popular and offers the most dramatic transformation, whitening teeth by up to 14 shades. Before treatment begins, we will use a shade chart to assess the color of your teeth. After treatment, we will use the shade chart again so you can measure exactly how many shades whiter your teeth are.
Before the whitening process begins, your teeth are cleaned to remove any stubborn stains. Next, you will be given eye goggles to protect your eyes from the laser beam and we will protect the soft tissues of your mouth from the bleaching gel with a rubber dam surrounding the teeth.
The whitening gel is applied to the teeth. The laser is directed at your teeth, which activates the bleaching properties in the gel that whiten the teeth. This process may only be carried out once, or several times—it varies depending on what tooth whitening system is used.
Once the application of the gel is complete, your teeth are cleaned thoroughly to remove all traces of the gel, and the process is finished. Your teeth are immediately and noticeably whiter.
Porcelain or Composite-Resin Veneers
Another option for whitening your teeth, especially if you have sensitive teeth, is porcelain or composite resin veneers. These thin, custom shells are bonded to the front of your existing teeth, so they cover stained or discolored areas. Veneers can also be used to close gaps between crooked or crowded teeth. We recommend this treatment plan for patients with severely damaged tooth enamel due to sensitivity. Veneers are a great option for whitening your teeth.
Taking Care of your Whitened Smile
Once you've achieved your desired level of whiteness, it's essential to take care of your smile so you can maintain those results. Here are a few tips for keeping your whitened teeth looking their best. After treatment with a professional teeth whitening kit, you should avoid drinking anything too hot or cold for at least an hour to reduce the risk of sensitivity.
Brush Regularly
We suggest brushing twice daily with sensitive toothpaste to prevent any discomfort after eating highly acidic foods like oranges and grapefruits. Keeping plaque off of your teeth will help keep them clean and shiny.
Avoid Dark Colored Food and Drinks
Darkly pigmented foods such as berries, beets, and spaghetti sauce can quickly darken your teeth. Coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks are also major culprits in discoloring teeth.
Kick the Habit of Smoking
Smoking yellows teeth. If you want to keep your newly whitened teeth bright, you should avoid smoking. In addition, smoking is harmful to your oral health, drying out the mouth and increasing the likelihood of developing oral cancer.
Regular Dental Visits
Regular dental visits will go a long way to keeping your teeth clean and healthy.
Teeth Whitening Dentist Portland
There are plenty of great options for teeth whitening if you have sensitive teeth. Of course, we highly recommend professional whitening treatment as the most effective and dramatic way to achieve brighter teeth. Still, we also offer several other affordable and gentle options, including home whitening kits, toothpaste, and veneers. So don't let sensitive teeth hold you back from achieving the beautiful smile you've always wanted – contact us at Hunter Dental Care via (503) 256-3737, and we will gladly help.
FAQs
Is teeth whitening safe for my teeth?
Yes, professional teeth whitening is safe when performed under the supervision of a dentist. At Hunter Dental Care, we use high-quality whitening agents that are designed to minimize sensitivity while effectively removing stains, ensuring the safety of your enamel.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
The results of teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to two years, depending on your oral care routine and dietary habits. To maintain your bright smile, avoid staining foods and beverages, brush regularly, and schedule touch-up treatments as needed.
Will teeth whitening work on all types of stains?
Teeth whitening is most effective on surface stains caused by foods, beverages, and smoking. However, it may not work as well on deep, intrinsic stains or discoloration from certain medications. Our dentists at Hunter Dental Care can evaluate your specific needs and recommend the most effective treatment option for your situation.