As a practicing cosmetic dentist in Lincoln Square, we’re often asked about teeth whitening. While we frequently see celebrities sporting pearly white teeth, the smiles for many of us tend to be a bit duller. That shouldn’t surprise anyone as there are many things that can turn your teeth that dreaded yellow color.
Yellowing is caused by the foods and beverages we consume, the use of tobacco, the medications we take, and the lack of proper brushing and flossing, along with genetics, age, illness and injuries.
If you’re hesitant about this procedure, here are answers to some of the questions we’re frequently asked about teeth whitening.
Are whitening products more effective with some stains than with others?
Yes, that’s true. Yellowish teeth respond well to whitening, while teeth with dark stains may be candidates for another whitening option such as veneers, bonding, or crowns.
Do whiteners damage tooth enamel?
Studies of whitening products using 10% carbamide peroxide showed little to no effect on the hardness or mineral content of a tooth’s enamel surface.
Do whiteners damage a tooth’s nerves?
There is no data to date indicating that tooth whitening has any damaging effect on a tooth’s nerves.
Do whiteners damage existing tooth restorations?
The use of whitening products containing 10% carbamide peroxide has not shown any damage to existing fillings. However, existing restorations, such as tooth-colored fillings, crowns, veneers, and bonding, do not brighten. You may need to replace preexisting dental work to match the new tooth shade produced by the whitening process.
How often does whitening need to be touched up?
By avoiding or limiting the consumption of foods and beverages that stain teeth, you may be able to go a year or longer before needing another whitening treatment or touch up.
How can I maintain my brighter smile?
To keep your new smile glowing, we suggest:
- Brushing or rinsing immediately after consuming foods and beverages that stain your teeth.
- Brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing at least once daily.
- Using a whitening toothpaste once or twice a week and a regular toothpaste the rest of the time.
Call us today
We want to be your dentist in Lincoln Square, and now that we’ve answered many of your questions, we hope you’ll call us today for an appointment and let us restore your smile to its youthful glow.
