Teeth Whitening
Albany, OR
Teeth Whitening in Albany provided by Dr. Jeffrey Carl & Dr. Austin Brunson at Jeffrey Carl DMD
 Teeth whitening refers to using bleaching agents on the teeth to brighten or whiten them. It is an ideal esthetic option for individuals with healthy teeth and gums and no dental restorations. People with yellow-stained teeth respond well to the procedure; however, it is not optional for all people. Teeth whitening consists of a broad spectrum of systems and products, including OTC gels, trays, strips, toothpaste, mouth rinse, and prescribed whitening products. We can help you brighten your smile at Jeffrey Carl DMD.
Dental Whitening Systems
At-home teeth whitening is usually not easy, and the results are not often the desired shade. Home whitening usually works best for front teeth surfaces. Home products like gels, rinses, toothpaste, chewing gum, and whitening strips are purchased locally and contain low bleaching agents like hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. It is important to consult with our dentist first if you have any dental restorations, sensitive teeth, very defined dark teeth, or a single dark tooth.
Whitening toothpaste does not contain bleach and only removes surface staining. It, however, contains polishing chemicals that are effective in removing surface stains and can only achieve one shade lighter for your teeth. Strips and gels contain bleaching agents and are applied on the tooth surface using a brush, and the whitening course takes about two weeks to achieve a brighter look on the teeth. Mouth rinses act more like breath fresheners; however, whitening rinses contain small amounts of bleaching agents and may not be effective in whitening teeth compared to other bleaching products. Trays are dental devices that fit over your teeth. These may be bought or recommended by our dentist. A bleaching gel is filled into these trays, and they are fitted on the teeth for some time, usually a few hours every day at night.
Professional Whitening
Our dentist typically carries out a professional whitening or in-office bleaching procedure, which is the most effective way to get your teeth a few shades lighter and faster. The procedure usually begins with a deep cleaning and examination of the teeth to prepare for the bleaching process. Our dentist typically checks for cavities and the overall health of your oral cavity. Our dentist will then advise to have any dental problems addressed first before undergoing a dental whitening procedure. Our dentist applies the whitening products, which contain high levels of peroxides, to the teeth at intervals and shines a laser, heat, or special dental light to fasten or activate the bleach. During the procedure, our dentist places a dam over your gums to protect them from the bleach and applies the gel at intervals of 20 or 30 minutes each. In-office whitening starts showing results within the first interval. To reach dramatic desired results, the procedure has to be repeated in several dental appointments.
To ensure your teeth remain bright, it is important to avoid staining foods and drinks like wine, coffee, soda, and colored sauces. If you do consume any of these, it is important that you brush your teeth immediately after. Smoking is also known to discolor teeth and affect your oral health. Be sure to brush and floss at least twice a day to ensure teeth remain white for a long period.
FAQs
What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure that uses high-concentration bleaching agents to remove stains and discoloration from teeth, resulting in a brighter, whiter smile. It is performed by a dentist to ensure safety and effectiveness.
How does in-office teeth whitening work?
In-office teeth whitening involves applying a powerful bleaching gel to the teeth, which is then activated by a special light or laser. This process helps to break down stains on the teeth, significantly whitening them in just one visit.
Is teeth whitening safe for everyone?
Teeth whitening is generally safe for most people, but it may not be suitable for individuals with certain dental conditions, such as severe enamel erosion or gum disease. It is important to consult with a dentist to determine if teeth whitening is appropriate for you.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
The results of teeth whitening can last several months to a few years, depending on your oral hygiene habits and lifestyle choices. Avoiding staining foods and beverages, as well as smoking, can help maintain the results longer.
Are there any side effects of teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening can cause temporary side effects such as tooth sensitivity and gum irritation. These effects usually subside within a few days after the treatment. Using toothpaste for sensitive teeth can help alleviate discomfort.
What should I do to prepare for a teeth whitening session?
Before a teeth whitening session, it is recommended to have a dental check-up and cleaning to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy. This allows for optimal results and reduces the risk of irritation during the whitening process.
Can teeth whitening remove all types of stains?
Teeth whitening is most effective on extrinsic stains, which are caused by food, drinks, and smoking. Intrinsic stains, which are deeper and caused by factors like medication or injury, may not respond as well to whitening treatments.
What are the alternatives to professional teeth whitening?
Alternatives to professional teeth whitening include over-the-counter whitening products like strips, gels, and toothpaste. However, these alternatives may not be as effective or long-lasting as professional treatments and can sometimes cause more sensitivity.
Contact Us Today!
Our Albany dental professionals at Jeffrey Carl DMD can help you achieve your sparkly smile, simply call us at (541) 918-2361. |
