Teeth Whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a popular and highly effective cosmetic dental procedure designed to safely and dramatically brighten your smile by lifting and removing stains and discoloration from your tooth enamel. If your teeth appear dull, dingy, or yellowish, professional teeth whitening treatments can significantly enhance their natural radiance, revealing a more vibrant and youthful smile.

Over time, various factors contribute to the staining and darkening of our teeth. While the outer layer of your teeth, the enamel, is strong, it can thin or develop microscopic pores, allowing pigments to penetrate and dull your smile. Common culprits include:

• Dietary Habits: Frequent consumption of darkly pigmented foods and drinks such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and colas.
• Tobacco Use: Both smoking and chewing tobacco are significant causes of intrinsic and extrinsic stains.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inconsistent brushing and flossing can lead to plaque and tartar buildup, which attracts and holds stains.
• Certain Medications: Some antibiotics (like tetracycline, especially during tooth development) can cause deep, internal discoloration.
• Aging: As we age, the protective enamel naturally thins, revealing more of the yellowish dentin layer beneath, making teeth appear darker.
• Trauma: Injuries to a tooth can sometimes cause it to darken from the inside.

At Advanced Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry in the Flatiron District, New York City, our professional teeth whitening methods are designed to penetrate the tooth enamel and break down stain molecules safely. This process effectively reverses the effects of these staining factors, helping you achieve a noticeably whiter smile quickly, often with no downtime. The result is a revitalized, confident smile that truly shines.

Can I effectively whiten my teeth at home?

Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments, such as whitening toothpastes and strips, can help remove surface stains. Unfortunately, they can’t penetrate the deeper layers of your teeth, where discoloration can accumulate. 

No OTC teeth whitening option is as quick or effective as in-office whitening. However, professional take-home kits can help brighten your smile at home.

What happens during in-office teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening usually takes an hour or less. It’s a straightforward process that can fit well into your busy schedule. First, your dentist at Advanced Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry evaluates your teeth to find the best whitening option for you.

If you choose in-office whitening, your dentist applies a protective gel to your gums to keep them safe. Then, they use a concentrated whitening gel on your teeth, typically containing hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which works to break down stains and lift discoloration. Sometimes, a special light activates the gel to enhance its effectiveness. 

The results are immediate, so you can show off your new smile the moment you leave the office.

How do I keep my teeth white after my teeth whitening treatment?

You can maintain your teeth whitening results with a few simple strategies, such as:

• Limit stain-causing foods and drinks
• Brush and floss at least twice a day
• Stay hydrated to wash away food particles
• Visit your dentist twice a year for teeth cleanings
• Avoid all tobacco products
• Limit acidic foods

Teeth whitening results aren’t permanent. When they start to fade, you can return to Advanced Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry for touch-up treatments.

If you’re interested in upgrading your smile, schedule a teeth whitening consultation at Advanced Implant & Cosmetic Dentistry. Call or book online today to learn more.