Patients want a smile that is bright and white. This trend has become increasingly popular over the years and because of this, so has the demand for effective professional teeth whitening. While there are several store bought products that claim brighten your smile, however tooth whitening at a dentist’s office is more effective, longer lasting, and has less side effects. Horizon Family Dental Care offers professional teeth whitening in Baltimore, MD to help patients whiten their teeth.
Why Are My Teeth Stained?
There are many reasons why your teeth are stained. For starters, as we age, our teeth will naturally begin to yellow or darken simply due to years of wear of tear. There are many types of foods and drinks that you may be consuming that will dull and discolor teeth. This includes tea, coffee, red wine, soy sauce, and dark colored sodas. Smoking is a horrible habit that will harm your health. However, it will also cause your teeth to turn yellow. Poor dental hygiene is also a main cause of yellow teeth.
There are several types of stains that are harder to control. For instance your genetics will play a role in what color your teeth are. 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, these types of stains typically cannot be treated with teeth whitening. You will need to get other types of cosmetic dentistry work done such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding to tackle these types of teeth stains.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Baltimore, MD
Professional teeth whitening involves using a high-concentration bleaching agent to break down these stains and whiten the teeth. There are two professional whitening options we offer: in-office whitening and at-home whitening.
Your dentist will perform the in-office teeth whitening procedure at our dentist 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 entire procedure usually takes about an hour, and patients can see immediate results. You can expect your teeth to be up to eight shades lighters after your treatment.
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 not as strong 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
There are many advantages to choosing professional whitening solutions over the many kinds you will find lining the shelves in a store. First, professional teeth whitening use a stronger concentration bleaching agent that is more effective. Over the counter products simply are not as effective and can take much longer to see results, if at all. Also, professional whitening is done by a dental professional who has undergone training. This makes it safer and ensures the results will be better and even. In the long run, it is simply safer, more effective, and time saving to have your teeth whitened by a dentist.
Aftercare
After a professional teeth whitening procedure, it is important to take good care of your teeth to maintain your results. This includes brushing and flossing regularly and avoiding foods and drinks that are known to stain teeth. Additionally, patients should visit their dentist for regular checkups and cleanings to keep their 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.