Teeth Whitening
Gainesville Dental Associates is one of the most well-known and reputable dentistry practices in Gainesville, VA. We also serve residents in Bristow, Haymarket, Warrenton, Middleburg, and other nearby areas. Nobody likes discolored teeth that make them feel self-conscious about their appearances. Coffee, soda, smoking, and other factors can all contribute to discolored teeth, but the good news is that there are numerous teeth whitening procedures and products available that will make your teeth whiter and brighter.
Some people are lucky enough to get sparkling white teeth by getting regular cleanings, flossing, and brushing their pearly whites twice a day with good fluoride toothpaste. However, not everyone achieves the same results, and many people need to get additional care to get their teeth whiter. Here at Gainesville Dental Associates we can walk you through the various options that are available, to choose tooth whitening treatments that are right for your individual needs.
Establishing a Treatment Plan
Schedule a visit with your dentist to learn whether whitening procedures would be effective for you. Whiteners do not correct all types of discoloration. For example, yellowish teeth will probably bleach well, brownish teeth may bleach less well, and grayish teeth may not bleach well at all. Likewise, whitening may not enhance your smile if you have had tooth-colored fillings or crowns. The whitener will not affect the color of these materials and they will stand out in your newly whitened smile. In these cases, you do have other options, such as porcelain veneers.
Tooth Whitening Treatments
Whiteners do not correct all types of teeth discoloration, so it is important to consult with your dentist prior to beginning the teeth whitening process. Our team can evaluate your situation, before establishing a treatment plan that will get the best results for your needs. Gray teeth do not always bleach well, brown teeth will bleach to a certain degree, and yellow teeth that are bleached usually become whiter without an issue. If you have crowns or dental fillings, then you may not get the results you are hoping to achieve. Whiteners will not change the color of these dental materials, and these materials may stand out in unbecoming ways against the areas of your teeth that are whitened. People that have crowns and fillings may be better off choosing porcelain veneers.
When selecting any type of whitener, you should always ensure that the product has the ADA seal of acceptance. This will give you complete peace of mind that the product meets minimum standards that are set by the ADA in terms of effectiveness and safety.
Teeth Whitening Treatment Products
- At-Home Whitening System. There are many at-home whitening systems on the market that can be prescribed by your dentist or purchased at your local pharmacy. These items include mouthguard teeth whitening trays, paint-on products, and strips.
- Teeth Whitening Trays. A teeth whitening tray contains peroxide that will bleach the enamel on your teeth. Carbamide peroxide is used in these products, and a variety of strengths are available. Trays usually use a gel substance that is placed into the mouthguard. They are used for several days or weeks until the desired results are achieved. Custom fitted mouthguards from your dentist are the way to go if you want maximum results.
- Teeth Whitening Strips. Strips are flexible plastic, thin strips that have a thin film of hydrogen peroxide bleaching solution on both sides. There are strips available for both the upper and lower teeth. The strips are put onto your teeth, and then gently pressed until they fully cover your teeth. They are worn for around 30 minutes 2 times per day. The treatment duration will vary from person to person.
- Paint-On Products. Paint-on teeth whitening products will allow you to bleach your teeth without the use of strips or appliances. The solution is painted on teeth that are clean and dry. After approximately 30 minutes the paint will turn into a dry film. The film can be removed by brushing your teeth.
Contact us today for a consultation appointment, or for any further questions you may have about teeth whitening dental treatments. We will be pleased to help.