At Hulen Smiles, Implant and Cosmetic dentist in Fort Worth TX, we provide professional teeth whitening treatments to patients looking to whiten their teeth for various reasons. Some patients choose teeth whitening because they know that whiter teeth can make their smiles appear younger and healthier. This boosts their self-confidence and makes them happier with the way their teeth look.
Other patients choose teeth whitening because they are concerned about teeth stains and discoloration. For them, whitening can eliminate stains caused by drinking tea, coffee, wine, soda, or other stain-causing foods and drinks and brighten their teeth so they can achieve a whiter smile quickly.
What Causes Teeth to Discolor?
Our teeth are naturally white, and when we smile, they can reflect light in a way that makes them appear brighter. However, certain foods, beverages, medications, and other factors can cause discoloration or staining of the enamel, making your teeth appear dull and yellow. Maintaining healthy teeth and gums through regular brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings can help minimize these stains and keep your teeth looking their best.
If you eat or drink foods or beverages known to stain the teeth - like coffee, tea, red wine, tomato sauces, or berries - do so in moderation and try to brush your teeth afterward or at least rinse your mouth with water to remove the residue. Some foods and beverages are worse than others when it comes to causing tooth stains, with coffee being one of the primary culprits.
Certain medications can also cause tooth discoloration, especially antibiotics and some prescription antihistamines. Tooth discoloration can also be caused by tobacco use, which often leaves a yellow and brown discoloration on the teeth. If you smoke or use other tobacco products, talk to your dentist about ways you can quit. In addition to improving the health of your teeth and gums, quitting smoking can also improve the color of your teeth.
Types of Teeth Whitening
Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments use concentrated solutions to provide quick and long-lasting results. They are recommended for eliminating stains caused by foods and drinks and signs of discoloration.
Patients with discolored teeth due to trauma or genetics can also undergo professional teeth whitening treatments to brighten their smiles. After a thorough exam from the dentist, a customized treatment plan can be created for the patient to achieve the desired results.
Over-The-Counter Teeth Whitening
While over-the-counter teeth whiteners can brighten your smile to a certain degree, it’s essential to remember that these products are not regulated by the FDA and may not offer the same lasting results as a professional treatment. Plus, these whitening solutions contain fewer bleaching agents than the ones dentists use, so they may not be as effective.
If you’re concerned about tooth discoloration and want to know more about your treatment options, visit Hulen Smiles, Implant and Cosmetic Dentist, at 6217 Oakmont Blvd, Fort Worth 76132, or call
(817) 585-4159 to schedule an appointment with our dentist, who can provide you with more information and make recommendations for what you can do to keep your smile bright.
