• • Many factors contribute to teeth staining.
    • Food and Drink-  Coffee, tea and red wine, for example, contain strong pigments that attach to enamel.
    • Tobacco Use- Tar and nicotine are ingredients of nicotine that create stubborn stains.
    • Age- Overtime the outer white enamel layer naturally gets thinner from brushing and reveals the softer darker area called dentin.
    • Trauma- If you’ve ever had a mouth injury, your teeth become darker in response to the injury by increasing the amount of dentin under the enamel.
    • Medication- Some medications can cause discoloration and darkening of teeth.

We are happy to outline our sanitation practices:

• We meet or exceed all standards set by OSHA, American Dental Association, Center For Disease Control and other regulatory agencies
• Whenever possible, we use individually sealed, disposable materials to reduce cross-contamination potential
• ALL reusable instruments and hand pieces are cleansed and sterilized
• After each patient, everything is sterilized using an autoclave, which is tested weekly
• All surfaces and equipment in the exam rooms are scrubbed, sterilized, and covered as appropriate
• Our staff wears disposable gloves, eye protection, and facial shields when performing procedures.

The whitening product contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These act as tooth bleaches that break the stains into smaller pieces that result in less concentrated color and brighter teeth.

No, whiteners cannot correct all types of discolorations. This is why it’s important to talk to your dentist about which method to whiten your teeth. The best method for you is determined based on the type of staining you have and if you have caps, veneers, crowns, or fillings.

• • Speaking with your dentist will help you determine which of these four options is right for you.
    • Stain Removal Toothpaste contains additional polishing agents that are safe for your teeth and can remove surface stains
    • In-Office Bleach is a dental appointment where a dentist will apply a protection to your gums and bleach to your teeth.
    • At-Home Bleaching from Your Dentist is a method using custom-made trays that will whiten your teeth over a period of a few days to a few weeks.
    • Over-the-Counter Bleaching products contain a lower concentration of bleaching agents that you would be able to get from your dentist. When purchasing product look for the ADA Seal of Acceptance which identifies the product as safe and effective.

Some people experience tooth sensitivity from whitening. Overuse of whiteners can also damage the tooth enamel or gums.

• • Within the first 48 hours avoid consuming dark, yellow or other “staining” foods, colored toothpaste, mouthwash, and other fluoride treatments. If you experience sensitivity, you can treat this by chewing sugarless gum or use a pain reliever.
  • Maintain your new, brighter smile with consistent daily oral hygiene and schedule a professional tooth cleaning twice a year with a dental hygienist.