Your smile is one of the first things people notice. The wear and tear of life can stain or darken your teeth, which can cause problems with self-esteem and confidence. However, there is no need to worry. There are many effective teeth whitening options you can use to get back the smile you want. Learn more about professional teeth whitening services, and reach out to a family dentist office today.
What Makes Teeth Get Darker?
First, we must consider the ways that teeth become stained or damaged. There are a number of factors that affect the way your teeth look. While some of these factors are genetic and outside of your control, there are other ways you can help keep your teeth white. The Cleveland Clinic lists some of the following:
- Diet: Some foods, like red wine and soda, can damage or stain teeth
- Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco products can darken the teeth
- Age: As you get older, the enamel on the teeth wears away
- Medications: Some medications can alter the look of your teeth
- Injury: Injuries to the mouth and gums can cut off blood flow to teeth
- Decay: Decay from cavities and other conditions affects the way your teeth look
In response to the growing number of people looking for whiter teeth, many methods have emerged. Here are some of the professional and do-it-yourself options
Methods for Teeth Whitening
Looking on the internet will reveal many methods for teeth whitening, from holistic methods to consultations with specialists. In fact, there are many teeth whitening products available at grocery stores and drug stores that can try. Common methods include gel strips or whitening trays that you wear while you sleep.
An important thing to consider is that not every teeth whitening product will be appropriate for everyone. Discussing teeth whitening options with your dentist can help save you time and money, and avoid potentially harmful interactions.
Professional teeth whitening services usually involve the application of hydrogen peroxide or other chemicals to essentially bleach your teeth, breaking up and reducing the appearance of stains.
While these methods are not permanent, your dentist can recommend changes to your diet and regular routine that can help your teeth stay white and bright. Brushing your teeth two or three times a day is a great way to maintain your teeth. Brushing your teeth after meals and reducing the amount of acidic foods that you eat can also help maintain your enamel.
While there is no one solution for whitening your teeth, a consultation with a cosmetic dentist’s office can help you understand your options, and make the most informed choice.
Finding a Cosmetic Dentist
Teeth whitening is just one of the ways that a cosmetic dentistry office can help you achieve a better-looking smile. Contacting your local dentist can help you make an informed choice for the smile that you want.
Dental bonding is a procedure where your dentist applies resin paste to cracks or damage in the teeth. The dentist then hardens the past with a UV light, covering up stains and restoring the look of the teeth.
Dental crowns are another common procedure to restore damaged teeth. First, your dentist performs a root canal, removing the damaged nerves and blood vessels. Post root canal therapy, your dentist will affix a crown, which is an artificial replacement for damaged parts of the tooth.
Find a Cosmetic Dentist Today
Reach out to a family dentist office today for a consultation for tooth whitening options and other cosmetic dentistry services. Start on the road to a smile you want to show off, and find your total oral healthcare provider today.
