Teeth Whitening: Get a Brighter Smile

by | May 23, 2014

Are you embarrassed to smile because your teeth are yellow or stained? Or, maybe, your discolored teeth just make you feel like you look older. Well, don’t let stained teeth ruin your happiness. A dazzling, whiter smile can be achieved through in-office teeth whitening treatments or by using over-the-counter whitening products.
 

In-office Teeth Whitening Treatments

If you’re serious about whitening your teeth, a professional, in-office treatment at Danville Family Dentistry in Hendricks County ensures the best whitening results. Dr. Jon Erickson will professionally clean your teeth to remove surface stains before your whitening treatment. The bleaching agents that Dr. Erickson uses contain a higher percentage of peroxide compared to over-the-counter whitening products. When used in combination with heat, a UV light, and/or a laser, these whitening agents penetrate your teeth, facilitating a deeper whitening effect. You’ll see results even after one treatment. However, depending upon the degree of tooth discoloration you have, several teeth whitening appointments may be necessary for more dramatic results.
 

Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, several over-the-counter products are available at various Hendricks County stores. While these products are relatively inexpensive and easy to use, their effectiveness can vary.

  • Whitening trays – Peroxide-containing gel is placed in a mouth guard that fits over your top and bottom teeth. Generally, you must wear these trays for 30 minutes a day for 10 to 14 days. Issues include: 1) They’re bulky and uncomfortable; 2) The gel can leak out; and 3) Gum irritation and teeth sensitivity can occur.
  • Whitening strips – Flexible plastic strips coated with peroxide gel are applied to your top and bottom teeth. The strips are worn for 30 to 60 minutes. Results are typically seen after 10 days of use. The downsides include: They’re hard to position; and they only cover the front 6 to 8 teeth.
  • Paint-on tooth gel – Immediately after brushing your teeth, you apply a peroxide solution to your teeth with an applicator. For the best results, you need to wait 30 minutes before you eat or drink anything. This method works best as a maintenance step following a stronger teeth whitening treatment.
  • Whitening toothpaste – Whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives that only scrub away surface stains. Unlike bleaches, they don’t change the color of your teeth. They’re best used as a maintenance step following a professional teeth whitening treatment.

Everyone’s teeth stains are different and vary in degree. Talk to Dr. Erickson first to determine which teeth whitening treatment would provide the best results for you. Call our Hendricks County office at (317) 745-4400 to schedule an appointment today.