The Quickest Smile Improvement
Whitening teeth is the easiest cosmetic procedure that will improve all smiles. In the same way that a tan can immediately melt away pounds and give you a healthy glow, whiter teeth will make you look healthier and younger.
As we age, our teeth can turn darker. This can be due to intrinsic factors (hello, aging) and extrinsic factors, like smoking and diet. Teeth can also be dark due to previous tetracycline use.
Is whitening safe?
Yes. When used as prescribed, there is no damage to teeth.
How effective is it?
It is very effective. All natural teeth will respond to whitening…it’s just a matter of how long it will take for you. Younger teeth will whiten more quickly than older teeth. Teeth that have intrinsic staining due to tetracycline will take longer (a couple months vs a couple weeks). Most patients need just two weeks to see an improvement. And don’t worry about being “too white”—it is actually very hard to get that bright Hollywood white color.
Can I use white strips or a whitening toothpaste?
Whitening toothpaste is not safe for tooth enamel. It actually contains abrasives that will scratch and wear off your enamel. They will damage the surfaces of any composite fillings you have—making them more susceptible to staining and discoloration. If you already brush your teeth carefully two times a day, whitening toothpaste will not improve your situation at all.
The whitening strips sold at the drugstore have come a long way since they were first introduced. If you just need a little boost, this can be a really economical and convenient way to whiten your teeth.
For bigger jobs, I recommend seeing the dentist for custom teeth whitening trays with a proven product, like Kor whitening. It has a neutral pH and comes with special desensitizer for those who experience sensitivity with tooth whitening. For patients with deep intrinsic stains, like the ones caused by tetracycline, there is no better product on the market.
Schedule a consultation
At Zeis Dental, we believe a beautiful smile is more than an aesthetic—it's a reflection of the care put into crafting it. Whether you're exploring cosmetic solutions for the first time or looking to protect the smile you've already invested in, our team is here to guide you with the expertise and attention your smile deserves. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Zeis today and let us help you wear your smile proudly for years to come.
