We all want the white and bright smiles of movie stars and models, but obtaining those pearly whites safely can be tricky. Our modern lifestyles promote tooth discoloration – from the coffee and wine we drink to our daily brushing habits – our teeth may be in need of a refresh. If you are ready to get a white smile, it is important to keep reading! At Premier Dental Center Universal City, we are committed to helping you improve your confidence with the smile of your dreams . . . as long as you do it safely.
Whitening Considerations
When you decide to whiten your teeth, there are a few things to consider to make the best decision for your dental health and your budget.
● Cost
● Level of discoloration
● Your dental history and sensitivity
● What type of treatment you are comfortable with
Once you determine the answers to the prompts above, you can pursue the right options and begin a consultation with your dentist.
How Does Whitening Work?
The protective casing of your tooth, known as enamel, protects the more sensitive inner tooth, known as the dentin. When your teeth become stained, it is likely a sign of enamel damage. This type of damage is caused by the day-to-day things subject our teeth to – things such as what we eat, drink, or even tobacco use. These stains penetrate the enamel and begin to impact the dentin. When you whiten your teeth, it uses the same process, by penetrating the enamel and lightening the color of the dentin. For people with severe tooth sensitivity, over-the-counter whitening products can inflict a lot of pain and damage the enamel permanently.
What Are Your Options?
We are living in a time of huge dental advancements, and whitening has never been easier! If you want to use an at-home whitening kit, we advise you to consult with your dentist to discuss which options are best based on the criteria listed above. The best choice is to use the whitening treatments provided by our dental team. Here are two ways to whiten your smile safely and quickly:
- Whitening treatment at Premier Dental Center Universal City. Results in as little as one session.
- Professional At-Home Whitening. Our dental team provides you with the whitening kit to use at home and we teach you how to get the best results. Our products are safe for enamel and you won’t have to worry about permanent damage.
Are At-Home Products Safe For My Teeth?
The simple answer is, not really. While the ADA – American Dental Association – has confirmed that using hydrogen peroxide-based products does not damage your enamel, many drugstore whitening toothpaste, mouthwashes, or whitening trays contain harsh chemicals in addition to hydrogen peroxide that damage your enamel and can cause significant tooth sensitivity.
We Can Help You
At Premier Dental Center Universal City, we offer professional whitening services. Not only will you see a brighter, whiter smile in as little as one visit, but you can also expect less sensitivity and no damage to your enamel. We will also work with you to fit your budget. Contact us today or schedule an appointment to begin your journey to the perfect smile.