Back in the day, it was common for people to have yellowed teeth and not care too much one way or the other. Today you’re hard-pressed to find a picture of people without sparkly whites. The process of teeth whitening is popular in today’s society because it makes our smiles more aesthetically pleasing, it makes our smiles stand out in photographs, and it boosts our confidence. While teeth whitening isn’t for everyone, it is a relatively affordable procedure that you can even find over-the-counter options for. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, it’s likely that you have a lot of questions about the efficacy of the process, the risks and costs associated with it, and other alternatives to whitening. In this article, we’ll answer some of the most pressing questions our clients tend to have about whitening procedures.
Q: Why do teeth become yellowed in the first place?
A: While everyone’s genetics differ and can yellow more rapidly than others, our teeth are susceptible to staining and yellowing mostly due to our daily habits. Eating acidic foods or foods with strong color can promote stripping of your teeth’s enamel. Additionally, when the enamel fades, the white brightness of your teeth also fades. Yellowing of teeth can be caused by: drinking dark sodas and coffee, smoking, inconsistent oral hygiene, and teeth grinding.
Q: Why whiten teeth at a dentist’s office?
A: There are several different ways you may choose to whiten your teeth, but the result you wish to achieve and your health should be the deciding factors of which method you go with. Whitening kits you buy over the counter are effective, but generally don’t last as long as dental office treatments. Making a trip to the dentist isn’t everyone’s favorite activity; however, it can provide the most thorough, professional results that last longer, ultimately saving you money in repeat, messy treatments. Furthermore, teeth whitening can be unsafe under certain conditions; therefore, it’s important to consult with a dentist to ensure your health and safety, and who may also monitor any side effects that may accompany the procedure.
Q: Why isn’t teeth whitening recommended for everyone?
A: Teeth whitening is not a harmful or dangerous procedure, especially when administered by a dentist. Teeth whitening can cause tooth sensitivity, and certain individuals have a lower tolerance to that sensation. Furthermore, pregnant women or mothers who are breast-feeding are not encouraged to undergo whitening procedures due to the slight ingestion of the chemicals that are applied to the teeth. While the amount of bleach applied to your teeth is minimal, it is out of abundance of caution that certain people aren’t recommended for the procedure.
Q: What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
A: While it is normal and natural for teeth to yellow as time goes on, teeth whitening is a quick, cost-effective remedy for a smile and confidence upgrade. Whitening toothpastes are for ongoing maintenance of whitened teeth; they don’t whiten teeth significantly on their own. Whitening your teeth can make you feel more assured on job interviews, in pictures, social functions, and other situations that require confidence and charisma.
Q: Are teeth-whitening processes damaging to your health?
A: Whitening processes do not affect the integrity of the tooth, nor do they strip the tooth’s natural enamel. That being said, it is not recommended to perform whitening procedures too frequently. Whitening can cause tooth sensitivity, as it expands the channels within the teeth causing mild, temporary discomfort in some people. In order to be sure you’re whitening your teeth safely, it’s best to consult with a professional dentist.
How the Dental Group of Simi Valley can help
Teeth whitening has become more popular in recent years, which means that the practice of dentistry must be even more well-informed on safe teeth whitening procedures. The team here at the Dental Group of Simi Valley is a warm, family-oriented, and dedicated group of professionals who are especially knowledgeable about teeth whitening. If you’re considering whitening your teeth, please call our office before making any decisions about your dental health. We will aid you in your decision-making process, and help you feel comfortable trusting us with your smile and your safety.
