Although there are several over-the-counter teeth whitening options, many of them can be ineffective when used to combat some types of tooth discoloration. Teeth can become discolored by long-term coffee drinking or smoking, but trauma to a tooth or dental problems can also cause discoloration that is not easily treated by whitening toothpastes or strips. Professional teeth whitening options usually work more effectively against darker stains on teeth.
Examining Teeth
If you’re thinking of whitening your teeth, you should have your dentist examine them to determine the cause of your tooth discolorations. This will allow him or her to recommend the best method for teeth whitening in Kalamazoo, MI. If the cause of the discoloration is external, your dentist may recommend a commercial whitening product to remove the stains.
Professional Dental Whitening
For discoloration caused by internal factors, such as trauma to a tooth or prescribed medications, he or she may recommend in in-office teeth whitening techniques. He or she may either recommend professional bleaching or using techniques involving lasers or heat applications, or he or she may even recommend restorative techniques for teeth that are pitted or damaged, such as applying veneers. If you live in the Kalamazoo area, Stephanie M Busch – Abbate DDS PLC can help make your teeth look brighter with in-house whitening techniques.
Although there are bleaching methods that you can buy over-the-counter, it is better for a dentist to monitor and help with bleaching teeth. He or she can make sure the tray used in these teeth whitening technique properly fits in the mouth so the technique is more effective in removing surface stains on teeth.
If the stains are below the surface, then he or she may use laser- or temperature-activated whitening techniques to brighten your smile. If you’re not happy with the whiteness of your teeth, speak to your dentist about how to lighten them and make your smile brighter.