A beautiful smile is radiant and healthy. If you are bothered by yellow, unsightly teeth, you can still improve the aesthetics of your smile with modern methods. Dental expert Marvin Taylor DDS, and the team at Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center in Waterford, Michigan, provide teeth whitening services. Contact Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center or reserve an appointment online today to get a brighter, whiter smile you can be proud to show off.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening eliminates both external (superficial) and intrinsic (deep inside) stains from your teeth. While over-the-counter (OTC) products can remove surface stains, they cannot reach the deeper layers of your teeth, as well as professional whitening.
Why Should I Consider Teeth Whitening?
Your teeth gradually lose their beautiful, white hue as you mature. There are numerous reasons why this occurs over time, including:
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Food and Drinks
Foods such as soy sauce, red spaghetti sauce, curries, and berries, as well as beverages such as red wine, coffee, and tea, can stain your teeth.
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Medication
Certain drugs and medical treatments, such as antibiotics and chemotherapy, can induce tooth discoloration.
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Tobacco Use
Tobacco products, such as cigarettes and tobacco chewing, contain nicotine and tar, which can stain your teeth and give them a brownish-yellow tint.
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Age
As you get older, your enamel thins, exposing the deep, yellowish dentin underneath it.
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Genetics
Enamel is the strong covering on the surface of your teeth that protects the softer dentin beneath. While enamel keeps your teeth brilliant, if you have naturally thinner enamel due to heredity, it can show the darker dentin underlying.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Teeth whitening is a straightforward procedure. One of two teeth bleaches is present in whitening products (hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide). These bleaches break down stains into smaller bits, making the color less vivid and your teeth brighter.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center provides two forms of teeth whitening:
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EPIC™ Teeth Whitening
EPIC denotes a laser teeth whitening solution that will eliminate stains from your teeth in 6-12 shades. EPIC treatments are distinguished by the fact that you only need to leave the whitening gel on your teeth for 20 minutes at a time, making them an excellent solution for those with sensitive teeth or gums.
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Zoom!® Teeth Whitening
ZOOM! is a teeth whitening treatment that employs hydrogen peroxide and rapid light therapy to eliminate stains from the deepest layers of your teeth. ZOOM! Can enhance your smile by up to eight colors in a single visit. This rapid, painless treatment is suitable for those who want to whiten their teeth as quickly as possible.
Does Whitening Work on All Teeth?
No, that is why you should consult your dentist before whitening your teeth, as whiteners may not remove all types of discoloration. Yellow teeth, for instance, will most likely bleach well, while brown teeth may not respond well. Also, teeth with gray tones may not bleach at all. Caps, veneers, crowns, and fillings will not whiten. It will also be ineffective if your tooth discoloration is the result of medicine or dental damage.
Call Dr. Taylor’s Family Dental Center or book an appointment online today to determine which teeth whitening treatment is appropriate for you.
