Teeth whitening seems to be on the minds of many today (in fact one of our first blog posts was on teeth whitening). Many today are self-conscious of the color of their teeth, and the trend is understandable. Social media has encouraged people to smile and take pictures and selfies more than ever before. Putting your best smile out there is important.
With an increased focus on getting a whiter, brighter smile we thought we’d re-examine teeth whitening and talk about the importance of cosmetic dentistry.
The Importance of Cosmetic Dentistry
At Park Avenue Dental we feel that cosmetic dentistry isn’t a specialty, it is an essential component of our practice. Our comprehensive approach means that we include many elements of cosmetic dentistry in our general dentistry practice. We know that your smile is important and we want to help transform your smile into something you can be proud of.
Teeth whitening is an important element of cosmetic dentistry, but it is not the only one. We can help you with many of your cosmetic dentistry needs!
Why do My Teeth Change Color?
Why do teeth change color in the first place? Teeth discoloration is a process that occurs naturally over time, but it can be quickened by outside forces:
- Drinking Coffee
- Drinking Wine
- Smoking
- Chewing tobacco
Genetics and age also play a factor in discoloration. Teeth naturally yellow over time and not everyone is born with perfectly white teeth. While there are efforts you can take to try and keep your teeth white without teeth whitening, your teeth may naturally yellow despite your efforts.
What are my Whitening Options?
Today there are so many options available to whiten your teeth. From whitening toothpaste to whitening strips and liquid solutions, knowing what’s available can help you make an informed choice when attempting to brighten your smile.
Over the Counter Whitening Solutions
- Whitening toothpaste – Technically any company can put “whitening” on your toothpaste and mouthwash. While cleaning your teeth is useful, it won’t remove any deep staining on your teeth.
- Whitening strips – One of the most convenient options, it is important to apply the strips evenly to your teeth so that your entire smile is covered.
- Whitening sticks – Applied almost like lip-balm, whitening sticks are activated by your saliva and are a great way to get your teeth completely covered. Make sure that you apply the whitening solution evenly on all your teeth.
- Bleach trays – The tray holds a whitening solution against your teeth. They can be uncomfortable, but they are effective.
- Paint-on liquids – Great for attacking specific trouble spots. Paint-on liquids are “painted” directly onto your teeth. Extra care is needed to make sure that the liquid is applied evenly and some brands wash away early, meaning you lose effectiveness.
Custom Dental Whitening
- Custom Whitening – We create a custom tray that holds a bleaching solution. The tray is designed so that none of the solution hits your gums and we and a desensitizing solution to the bleach to limit your discomfort due to tooth sensitivity.
- Zoom! Whitening – One of the fastest working teeth whitening solutions out there. Zoom! Whitening can be applied in our office, or at home for your convenience.
Whatever solution you decide, Park Avenue Dental is here for you. We want you to feel comfortable and confident with your smile and we can suggest the best solutions to get you fabulous results.
How to Whiten Your Teeth
When you go to the store there are so many teeth whitening agents out there, and they can be quite pricey. It is important to have a guide so that you don’t damage your teeth or increase your sensitivity. Before you purchase a teeth whitening agent, here are a few things to consider:
- Know the strength of the whitening agent. The stronger the solution the faster you should see results.
- Teeth whitening agents only work on real teeth. If you have partial teeth you could get uneven coloring with a whitening agent.
- Whitening agents have a short shelf life. Make sure you check the expiration date before you buy anything at the store.
- You could cause yourself pain. Teeth whitening agents are acidic solutions, they can increase the sensitivity of your teeth and gums.
Achieve a Whiter Smile at Park Avenue Dental
Talk to your dentist to discuss the effects of each solution, so that you can have a brighter, whiter smile. At Park Avenue, we understand the importance of a great smile, we want you to feel confident. We’re here to help improve your smile.
