How Safe is Teeth Bleaching?

We all want a whiter and brighter smile, and here at Goochland Dentistry, those “pearly whites” can be yours. With in-office teeth whitening combined with a take-home enhancer, your teeth can be noticeably whiter in no time.

This easy and nearly effortless cosmetic option is quite popular among our patients. A dark and dingy stained smile is a self-esteem killer, and people hide their teeth in shame. Do not let your self-confidence dip due to your discolored teeth when a doable fix is quick and painless.

Here is what you need to know about teeth bleaching and why doing it with us is your best bet. Read on before you run to the store for those over-the-counter whitening strips. They aren’t as amazing as you think. 

My teeth are not as white as they used to be. What could be the cause?

Teeth can become discolored or stained for a variety of reasons. Getting older in itself can be the culprit. Deeper stains and discolorations can come from what we eat and drink. Some of these foods and drinks to avoid or limit substantially include coffee, tea, red wine, chocolate, red sauces, and cola drinks. Additionally, it is smart to ditch the tobacco, not only for the sake of your teeth, but for your overall health as well. Also, certain medications have been known to stain teeth, sometimes permanently. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if this is an issue for you. There may be an alternative option you can switch to.

I brush my teeth twice daily. Why are my teeth still not as white as they can be?

Regular brushing is ideal for keeping your mouth fresh, clean, and healthy. You will remove significant surface stains by doing so, but brushing alone will not protect your teeth from the build-up that keeps piling on day after day. Over time, the stains set in, even if you brush very well. It does not necessarily mean your teeth are damaged or decayed; this is just what happens when we consume certain foods and drinks (see above), use tobacco products, etc. Keep up with your regular brushing, and even use a whitening toothpaste your dentist recommends for an extra boost. But in order to get multiple shades whiter, teeth bleaching is the way to go.

Do I have to get my teeth bleached at the dentist’s office?

There are a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening strips, gels, trays, etc. Many do work, but not all (if any) are as effective as an intensive in-office treatment. The results from these over-the-counter products simply don’t last as long, and the whitening is not as noticeable as what an in-office treatment can provide. Plus, some of these store-bought treatments can damage the teeth and gums. Why take the risk when there is a better solution you can choose?

What type of teeth bleaching do you offer at Goochland Dentistry?

Here at Goochland Dentistry, we are impressed with Opalescence Boost treatment technology. This whitening process uses special trays with a powerful whitening gel that is placed over the teeth. You will sit back in the chair while the product does the job, and before you know it, your teeth will be significantly whiter and brighter. There is no pain or discomfort during the bleaching procedure. To get your teeth even whiter for longer, we may recommend the Opalescence Take Home Trays for added brightening benefits. It is so simple and the results are stunning.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for teeth bleaching?

When you are in the office for a regular dental checkup, we can discuss the possibility of teeth whitening with you. Most of our patients who are interested in having whiter teeth can benefit from the in-office process, and we can set you up with an appointment to get it done if you are a good fit. 

How do I properly care for my newly whitened teeth?

Brush and floss your teeth as usual, but try to stay away from potentially staining foods and drinks as well as tobacco. Drink plenty of water too so the mouth is moist and stains don’t set in due to dryness. Keep up with your twice-yearly dental checkups and cleanings too. The amazing whitening results from Opalescence Boost will last you a long time, but not necessarily forever, so you may require another treatment down the line. 

Make the change!

Are you interested in getting your teeth whitened at Goochland Dentistry? Contact us at (804) 784 4624 and we will set you up with a consultation for this procedure. 

We look forward to giving you that dazzling smile you have been dreaming of! Your confidence will soar, and all you will want to do is say, “Cheese!”

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