5 Facts You Need to Know About Teeth Whitening in Arcadia

Over time, all those morning cups of coffee and evening glasses of red wine will eventually stain your teeth, leaving your smile less dazzling than before. Not only can stained teeth negatively affect one’s self-confidence, but research has shown that having a whiter smile has a direct effect on successful interactions at work and in one’s social life. If you want to make the best first impression possible but are not confident enough to show your smile, professional teeth whitening may be the solution. Here are 5 facts you need to know about teeth whitening in Arcadia.

What Do Teeth and Sponges Have in Common?

Teeth may seem like hard, solid surfaces, but did you know that tooth enamel actually contains millions of microscopic pores? Just like a sponge soaks up liquids, the pores in teeth absorb the color from dark foods and drinks, which slowly stain your teeth over time. Wine, coffee and black tea are especially strong staining agents, so be mindful of how often you consume these beverages.

Custom Trays VS Laser Bleaching

The key to a beautiful whitened smile without inconsistencies is the delivery device. There are two primary professional teeth whitening methods that both deliver winning results: custom trays and laser bleaching. Custom trays are created from molds of your mouth to fit perfectly over your teeth. The trays are filled with a peroxide-based whitening agent and must remain in your mouth for several hours at a time. Laser bleaching, on the other hand, uses advanced laser technology to speed up the whitening process and improve the effectiveness. The heat of the laser reacts with a strong bleaching solution applied to the teeth, delivering a dazzling smile in less time than custom trays.

Rest Easy with Professional Teeth Whitening

You can rest easy knowing you are in good hands when getting your teeth whitened by a cosmetic dentist in Arcadia. Professional teeth whitening is an incredibly safe procedure that, if done properly, will not damage your teeth. A common misconception is that teeth whitening is accomplished by removing a thin outer layer of enamel from your teeth, exposing a new whiter layer underneath. In reality, the whitening process uses an active cleaning agent to temporarily open the pores in your teeth and lift deep stains out. The pores will close again naturally within a few days of the whitening procedure.

Why You Should Leave Whitening to the Professionals

Many people are tempted to try at-home teeth whitening options as a way to save money. However, even though many over-the-counter whitening toothpastes, gum or strips say they are “professional strength,” the results tell a different story. Over-the-counter whitening products available at local pharmacies and drug stores can temporarily remove some discoloration on the outside of the teeth, but do not offer the deep whitening power that professional whitening can deliver. At-home teeth whitening may cost less, but an investment in professional dental whitening will result in a brighter smile that lasts longer.

Tooth Sensitivity After Whitening is Normal

Tooth sensitivity during the whitening process is completely normal – and temporary! Teeth naturally remineralize and rehydrate after the teeth whitening process, so heightened sensitivity typically only lasts approximately 12 to 36 hours after treatment. Post-whitening fluoride treatment can also help nourish the teeth and promote rehydration.

If you want a confident, white smile that will light up the room, talk to a cosmetic dentist in Arcadia today!

About the Dentist

A participant of the World Clinical Laser Institute, the world’s largest laser dentistry education organization, Dr. Kenneth J. Canzoneri is dedicated to helping men and women in Arcadia achieve the dazzling white smiles they have always wanted. If you want to learn more professional teeth whitening, visit his website today or call the office at +1 626-446-1679.