It is natural for teeth to become discolored over time. Staining can occur for a variety of reasons, like dark colored beverages, tobacco products, and aging. That being said, it’s still one of the most common reasons why patients are self-conscious about the appearance of the teeth. If you are considering teeth whitening, you should discuss your options with your dentist to ensure that it is an ideal option for you. Read on to learn some reasons why.
Determining the Cause of Discoloration
There are a variety of ways that discoloration can become apparent. This includes heredity, aging, lifestyle choices, medication, and oral health issues. Ultimately, certain types of stains can’t be addressed with professional teeth whitening on its own. Depending on the cause of your discoloration and your oral health, your dentist can make a recommendation to meet your needs.
Ensuring Safe & Effective Treatment
Teeth whitening products contain strong whitening agents. While they are safe on healthy teeth, they can aggravate existing dental issues, like tooth decay and cracks. Overusing whitening products or using them incorrectly can also be damaging to your smile. By seeing your dentist ahead of time, they can ensure that you don’t have any existing issues that could be aggravated by teeth whitening. They can also give you guidance on the correct way to use whitening products to reduce risk.
Addressing Tooth Sensitivity
If you are prone to tooth sensitivity, teeth whitening can make this worse. You can reduce your sensitivity during and after your treatment by seeking professional advice on whether teeth whitening is suitable for you. Your dentist can also give you suggestions on desensitizing products to lessen dental sensitivity.
Seeing Better Results
If you choose an over-the-counter whitening kit, you may not see the dramatic results that you are hoping for. It can also take a long time to notice a difference. By talking with your dentist, they can advise you on the most effective whitening solutions to help you achieve your desired results. By choosing a professional whitening treatment, you can achieve a smile several shades whiter in a short period of time.
Teeth whitening can help you achieve beautiful results that you are proud to show off. By working with your dentist and seeing them for advice, you can enjoy safe, comfortable, and productive whining treatment near you.
About the Author
Dr. Donna Kiesel earned her dental doctorate from the Baylor College of Dentistry. She has been working in the field for more than three decades and is a proud member of the American Dental Association, Texas Dental Association, Dallas County Dental Society, and Spear Education. To learn more about teeth whitening or to schedule an appointment, visit his website or call (972) 420-4488.