More and more people are striving for a brighter smile by whitening their teeth. This trend has become increasingly popular over the years, and so has the demand for effective professional teeth whitening.
Several store-bought tooth whitening products claim to brighten your smile. However, professional treatment from a dentist is more effective, will last longer, and has fewer side effects. Horizon Family Dental Care offers professional teeth whitening in Baltimore, MD, to help patients whiten their teeth.
Why Are My Teeth Stained?
Tooth discoloration can result from several things. As we age, our teeth will naturally begin to yellow or darken because of years of wear and tear.
Many foods and drinks you probably consume daily that will dull and discolor teeth. Beverages such as tea, coffee, red wine, and dark-colored sodas can easily stain teeth.
Smoking is terrible for you and is the leading cause of many health problems. Additionally, smoking will also cause your teeth to turn yellow. Poor dental hygiene is also a major cause of yellow teeth.
Several types of tooth stains are more challenging to control. For instance, your genetics will play a role in the color of your teeth. Certain diseases and medications can cause your teeth to darken and discolor.
Other reasons your teeth can discolor include consuming too much fluoride and trauma to a tooth. Unfortunately, your dentist cannot typically treat these stains with teeth whitening. To tackle these teeth stains, you will need to get other types of cosmetic dentistry work done, such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Baltimore, MD
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dentistry procedure that involves using a high-concentration bleaching agent to break down these stains and whiten the teeth. We offer two professional whitening options: in-office whitening and at-home whitening.
Your dentist will perform the in-office teeth whitening procedure at our dentist’s office. After covering up your teeth and gums for protection, they will apply the bleaching agent to your teeth. Then, they will use a special light to activate the bleaching agent.
The procedure usually takes about an hour, and patients can see immediate results. After treatment, you can expect your teeth to be up to eight shades lighter.
The at-home teeth whitening treatment is slightly different. During your first visit to our dental practice, we will create a custom set of trays to fit snuggly over your teeth. At home, you will fill the trays with a bleaching agent and wear the trays for a set amount of time each day.
You will repeat this process for several weeks. The bleaching agent you use at home is less intense than the in-office bleaching agent. Therefore, it will take longer to achieve the desired results. However, some patients tolerate the gradual treatment better and enjoy doing the treatment on their own time from home.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs Store Bought Teeth Whitening Products
Choosing professional whitening solutions offers many advantages over the many kinds you will find in a store. First, professional teeth whitening uses a more potent concentration bleaching agent that is more effective. Over-the-counter products, such as whitening strips, are not as effective and can take much longer to see results. A whitening toothpaste is unlikely to produce any noticeable results.
One of our trained dental professional will administer or oversee your whitening treatment. The whitening process is, therefore, much safer and ensures the results will be better and even. In the long run, having your teeth whitened by a dentist is safer, more effective, and time-saving.
Aftercare
After a professional teeth whitening procedure, taking good care of your teeth is vital to maintain your results. You must brush and floss regularly and avoid foods and drinks that stain teeth. Additionally, you should visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. Twice a year teeth cleanings will keep your teeth healthy and free of plaque and tartar.
Get Whiter Teeth with Professional Teeth Whitening in Baltimore, MD
To learn more about teeth whitening in Baltimore, MD, schedule an appointment with Horizon Family Dental Care. To request an appointment online, simply fill out our online form or contact our Baltimore dental office.