Teeth Whitening
One of the most common complaints that people have about the appearance of their smile is that their teeth have become stained or yellowed over time. Dr. Staten will explain the available options for restoring your teeth to shiny white. We offer in-office procedures, such as deep bleaching and Zoom! Whitening, which uses a special light to brighten your smile. We also offer home-whitening kits that include more peroxide than over-the-counter kits, to provide better results.
Do Whitening Systems Remove All Stains?
While in-office and at-home whitening systems are effective for reversing extrinsic staining (stains caused by drinking coffee, tea, red wine, etc.) sometimes tooth discoloration is intrinsic in nature, meaning that it comes from the inside of the tooth. Whether caused by heredity or the consumption of certain antibiotics or prescription medications, intrinsic stains are resistant to whitening, and are best treated by veneers or bonding.
Whitening systems also are not effective in whitening existing veneers or dental work that may have become discolored over time. Whitening systems work only on natural teeth. The only real solution to whiten discolored veneers or porcelain fillings or crowns is to have them replaced. Dr. Staten can perform these procedures in the office.
Who Can Benefit from Whitening?
Most patients with permanent teeth that have become discolored over time by external sources like coffee or red wine can achieve great results with whitening. Whether you want to look younger, want to look more professional, or want to look better in photographs, whitening is a quick and effective tool for improving your appearance.
