Why Professional Teeth Whitening is Worth It

You brush (at least) twice daily. You floss. You visit your dentist for checkups and cleanings every six months, like clockwork. And still, you look at other people’s smiles and can’t help but wonder why your teeth aren’t as white.

Here’s the truth: You can do everything right and still accumulate stains on your teeth over time. If you’ve been thinking about professional teeth whitening, talk with your dental care team. Your dentist can help you understand the cause of your staining, the impact of take-home whitening kits available today, and why leaving it to the pros is worth it.

Everyday Causes of Tooth Discoloration

Some causes of tooth discoloration can’t be helped, like aging, living with certain diseases, taking certain medications, and experiencing tooth trauma from an injury. Your genetics can also play a role.

You may be surprised, though, how making changes to your lifestyle like quitting smoking and using tobacco and stepping up your oral hygiene can help. You may also be surprised to learn how many different foods and beverages can stain your teeth.

Food and drinks that are dark in color, have high acidity (which can weaken the enamel on your teeth), or contain carbohydrates (which break down into simple sugars) can stain your teeth.

Common examples include:

• Candy
• Carbonated drinks, including soda (even light ones!)
• Certain sauces (including tomato, curry, soy, and balsamic vinegar)
• Coffee and tea
• Food coloring
• Frozen popsicles
• Fruits and berries
• Juice
• Red and white wine
• Sports drinks
• Starchy foods (pasta, bread, potato chips)

The Truth About Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products

These days, many different over-the-counter teeth-whitening products are available, including gel strips, toothpastes, rinses, trays, and pens. These products can be relatively easy to use and are likely less expensive than professional teeth whitening, but the active ingredient (often hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide) isn’t as strong.

Compared to professional teeth whitening, over-the-counter products also:

• Aren’t custom fitted to your mouth.
• Cause irritation to your gums and sensitivity for some people.
• Don’t give the same long-lasting result.
• Take time before you begin to notice a difference.

Professional Teeth Whitening: What to Expect

Professional-strength custom kits you can use at home are available from Cleveland Family Dentistry.

Take-home Teeth Whitening: A Personalized Kit

Personalized kits include custom-made trays to fit over your teeth perfectly and a professional-strength topical solution. This option allows you to professionally whiten your teeth at home without having to schedule an appointment and travel to the office. Your dental care team will teach you how to use the kit and will be available to answer your questions.

Brighten Your Smile Today

To learn more about professional teeth whitening in Cleveland, Texas, schedule an appointment online or call us at 281-592-1234. We can’t wait to create a customized teeth whitening solution to fit your needs — and gives you the winning smile you’ve always dreamed of.