We Brighten Smiles With Cosmetic Whitening
February 27, 2019
One of the most commonly requested cosmetic procedures is teeth whitening. Having a bright smile helps make a great first impression and boost confidence. In order to help patients in Kansas City, MO, enjoy their brightest possible smile, we offer an at-home teeth whitening system. In today’s blog, we’re looking at this treatment option, as well as the steps one can take to keep teeth bright.
At-Home Whitening
How does our home-based teeth whitening procedure work? We begin by taking detailed impressions of your smile using digital technology. These impressions help us design and create a set of plastic trays, which will fit comfortably and be tailor made for your smile. We then prescribe a bleaching gel. At home, you will fill the trays with the gel and wear them, usually for between 30 minutes and 45 minutes each day. To have your smile brightened by multiple shades, the treatment period will typically last between one and two weeks. You then keep the trays and any remaining gel for touch-ups down the road.
Keeping Your Teeth Bright
Routine care will help your new results last much longer. When we brush and floss our teeth daily, we help limit how much plaque can form on our teeth and reduce the severity of teeth stains. Likewise, cutting back on drinks with dark pigments, such as soda, coffee, tea, and red wine, we help avoid discoloration. Reducing the consumption of sugary foods and beverages also helps combat plaque buildup. If you smoke, quitting not only protects your teeth from unsightly stains, but also limits your chances of developing cancer. Routine checkups and cleanings also help you maintain a brighter smile, and also enjoy a reduced risk of tooth decay and gum disease.
Masking Permanent Teeth Stains
While most stains appear on the surface of our teeth, some form below the tooth enamel. Known as intrinsic stains, these may not respond to all teeth whitening procedures. If we find you have intrinsic stains, which could occur as a result of injury, fluorosis, or tetracycline use as a child, then we may suggest masking them. Dental bonding, lifelike veneers, or a combination of the two could brighten your smile and hide these embarrassing stains. If you have any questions about our approach to professional teeth whitening, or if you’re ready to start your journey to a brighter smile, then contact our team today.
Do You Want a Brighter Smile?
We want to help you enjoy a smile free of discoloration. To learn more about our unique cosmetic treatments, then schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018. Let 2019 be the year you obtain a beautiful smile!