It is natural for teeth to become discolored over time. Stain can occur for a number of different reasons, including dark-colored beverages, tobacco products, and aging. That being said, it’s still one of the most common reasons why patients are self-conscious about the appearance of their teeth. If you are considering teeth whitening, you should discuss your options with your dentist to make sure it is a safe option for you. Continue reading to learn some reasons why.
Determining the Cause of Teeth Discoloration
There are various different causes of tooth discoloration. This includes heredity, aging, lifestyle choices, medicine, and oral health issues. Ultimately, certain types of stains can’t be addressed with professional teeth whitening along. Depending on the cause of your discoloration and oral health, your dentist can make a recommendation to meet your individual needs.
Ensuring Safe & Effective Treatment
Teeth whitening products contain strong whitening agents. While they are safe on healthy teeth, they can aggravate existing dental issues, like tooth decay and cracks. Overusing whitening products or using them incorrectly can also be damaging to your smile. By seeing your dentist ahead of time, they can ensure that you don’t have any existing issues that could be aggravated by teeth whitening. They can also give you guidance on the correct way to use whitening products to reduce risk.
Addressing Tooth Sensitivity
If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, teeth whitening can make this worse. You can reduce your sensitivity during and after your treatment by seeking professional advice on whether teeth whitening is suitable for you. Your dentist can also give you suggestions on desensitizing products to lessen dental sensitivity.
Seeing Better Results
If you pick up an over-the-counter teeth whitening kit, you may not see the dramatic results that you are hoping for, and it can take a while to notice a difference. By talking with your dentist, they can advise you on the most effective whitening solutions to help you achieve your desired results. By opting for professional teeth whitening with your dentist, you can achieve a smile up to eight shades brighter in just an hour-long visit. You can’t beat that!
Teeth whitening can help you achieve a smile that you are proud to show off. By working with your dentist and seeing them for advice, you can enjoy safe, comfortable, and productive whitening treatment near you.
About the Practice
At Washington Dental Care, Dr. Peter Hammes and Dr. Rashmi Kakar work together to treat patients in the West Loop Chicago area. They offer in-office and take-home professional teeth whitening, so you can achieve a dramatically whiter smile. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule a consultation, visit their website or call (312) 766-5412.
