Flashing a bright smile is one of the ways to greet people nonverbally that signifies you are joyed to be seeing them. This leads to most individuals seeking cosmetic dental treatments to whiten their teeth. However, the overwhelming amount of available products and services can make you question if they actually work. At Klamath Smiles, we use our expertise to give you advice so you can make the best decision for your teeth. Look no further because our trusted dental services are available in Klamath Falls.
Why Teeth Change Color
Before looking at whitening options, it helps to know why teeth become discolored. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Food and drinks: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sauces can stain enamel over time.
- Smoking or tobacco use: These products often leave yellow or brown stains.
- Aging: As we age, enamel gets thinner and the layer underneath, called dentin, shows through more, making teeth look darker.
- Medications or health conditions: Some medications and treatments can also affect tooth color.
Awareness of teeth discoloration is the first step to maintaining better oral care. This makes going for teeth whitening much easier for you.
What Really Works for Whitening
There are several ways to safely and effectively whiten your teeth, but the most reliable is still going for professional dental care.
- In-Office Whitening Treatments
Dentists are licensed experts who are able to procure products that are considerably stronger for whitening treatments. They apply this in a controlled setting, which allows you to view noticeable results in just your first visit. - Custom Take-Home Whitening Kits
If you opt to treat your teeth whitening at home, dentists will be able to provide a custom package for you to use. This includes a tray of professional-strength whitening gel. This process is noted to be more effective than store-bought kits. Since these trays are measured to your actual teeth, they can properly work as a whitening solution. - Good Oral Hygiene and Professional Cleanings
The most basic method to obtain whitened teeth is maintaining dental cleanings and regular at-home care. This prevents stains and helps keep your teeth brighter.
What Does Not Work So Well
Not every whitening option gives good results, and some can even harm your teeth.
- Whitening toothpaste by itself
Toothpaste can remove some surface stains, but it will not change the actual color of your teeth. It is better for maintaining results after a professional whitening. - DIY home remedies
Baking soda and lemon, although natural, can cause your teeth to become sensitive. - Charcoal whitening products
Charcoal can remove some stains, but it is very abrasive and can wear down enamel over time.
Why Professional Whitening Is Safer
Paying a visit to your dentist to whiten your teeth is still the safest option. Going for shortcuts such as over-the-counter products may not react in a predictable way, which makes their effectiveness doubtful. Worst of all, you could end up with gum irritation, which is an even more expensive visit to your dentist. Professional whitening reacts accordingly to your teeth because it is made with the right concentration of whitening gel as opposed to untrustworthy remedies.
Ready to Brighten Your Smile?
Klamath Smiles is available to help whiten your teeth. In Klamath Falls, our dental services are extensive. Allowing you to choose which works best for your preferences.
Visit us today or call for an appointment. You can then leave our clinic with a brighter smile.
