Dr. Samantha Leatherwood provides teeth whitening treatment at Leatherwood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry in Denton, TX. Tooth discoloration can be caused by a number of factors, including aging, smoking and tobacco use, or pigmented foods and beverages. Over time, the tooth enamel wears down from repeated use.
Underneath the enamel is dentin, a dark underlayer that can make the teeth appear darker. Patients who smoke or use tobacco products may have stained or yellowed teeth due to nicotine. Foods and beverages like berries, tea, coffee, and sodas contain pigmented chromogens that stain the tooth enamel. Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that helps reverse stains for a brighter look.
PROFESSIONAL VS. STORE-BOUGHT TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT
Over-the-counter whitening toothpaste or strips usually are not effective enough to whiten teeth. They can also irritate the teeth and gums or may not offer the best results. Professional whitening treatment is a safe way that patients can brighten tooth enamel by multiple shades.
Teeth whitening not only improves the look and brightness of teeth, but it can also lead to improved oral health. Patients who receive professional teeth whitening treatment are often more motivated to maintain their results. Brushing and flossing properly as well as visiting our office for biannual cleanings and examinations also provides longer-lasting results.
PROFESSIONAL TEETH WHITENING TREATMENT
We offer our patients professional whitening solutions in our Denton office. To begin treatment, we protect the lips and gums to combat sensitivity. Then, we will apply the whitening solution evenly to the teeth. Patients can receive a solution containing a higher or lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide, depending on their sensitivity and desired results. Then, we insert a mouthpiece that uses heat and LED light to cure the teeth.
Treatment is done in short applications with a total treatment time of under an hour. Because this whitening method is so fast, it is also a great option for patients who are going to weddings, birthday parties, graduations, or other special events. Patients can get results after just one visit to our Denton dental office.
TEETH WHITENING FAQS
Learn the answers to common questions about teeth whitening treatment here:
CAN DENTAL VENEERS OR CROWNS BE WHITENED?
We recommend whitening treatment for use on the natural tooth enamel. Professional whitening systems cannot be used to whiten porcelain veneers, dental crowns, tooth bonding, false teeth, implants, bridge, or dentures.
IS TEETH WHITENING BAD FOR TEETH?
No, teeth whitening does not damage the teeth and is not harmful to your oral health. Although patients may have used other whitening methods that have caused tooth sensitivity, our treatment is formulated with sensitivity in mind. We use gum barriers that protect against gum irritation and can offer a whitening solution with less hydrogen peroxide for patient comfort.
HOW LONG WILL MY TEETH WHITENING LAST?
The results vary from patient to patient. If you take good care of your teeth after treatment, the results can last up to two years. However, poor oral hygiene habits and consuming staining foods and beverages will cause your teeth to stain faster than normal.
To make your whitening results last longer, we suggest not using tobacco and avoid coffee, tea, red wine as well as other foods or drinks stain teeth. Additionally, good oral hygiene habits such as regular brushing and flossing and visiting your dentist twice a year will help the results last longer.
IS THE TEETH WHITENING PROCEDURE PAINFUL?
You will not experience any pain during the whitening process. However, some people experience some level of sensitivity during and after. This will subside in few hours or days.
Request a Dental Consultation
Want a brighter and healthier smile? Try a teeth whitening treatment offered by a professional dentist. Call Leatherwood Family and Cosmetic Dentistry for comfortable treatment at (940) 220-3566. You may also schedule an appointment with Dr. Leatherwood online.