According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, when people were asked what they would most like to improve about their smile, most respondents wanted whiter teeth. Practicing good oral hygiene everyday is the most important part of keeping your smile bright, white and healthy. However, many of us feel that our teeth are lacking that certain sparkle.
Some of the most common causes of stained and discolored teeth are:
- Food and Drink
Common culprits are coffee, tea, cola and red wine. These contain highly concentrated color pigments that attach to the tooth enamel. - Smoking
Both tar and nicotine generate persistent stains. - Age
With age, tooth enamel gets thinner and more of the yellowish dentin begins to show through. - Dental Trauma
Teeth react to an injury by forming more dentin which is a yellowish hue. - Medications
Tooth yellowing or darkening can be an unfortunate side effect of certain medications such as antihistamines and high blood pressure drugs.
There are many over-the-counter, at-home remedies for teeth whitening. However, these products contain a much less potent bleaching agent. Also, the strips and “one-size-fits-all” trays do not offer maximum contact between the whitening product and the teeth.
Your dentist can provide in-office bleaching and customized tray bleaching as options that will give you the best results in the quickest time. Professional strength in-office bleaching is applied directly to the teeth and is often used in combination with heat or a special laser. Gums and soft tissue are shielded from the irritating effects of the bleach. Dramatic results are achieved after just a single visit.
If you would like a brighter smile, call your dentist today and ask about professional teeth whitening.
