Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental service that the Center for Dental Anesthesia provides in-office or through a take-home kit. Results vary, but most patients see significant lightening that lasts up to a year.
Want to feel more confident?
Our teeth whitening patients affirm that a whiter smile increases self-confidence and can take years of wear and discoloration away to reveal a brighter smile.
Whitening vs bleaching
Teeth whitening and teeth bleaching, however, mean two different things. Surface cracks and stains arise on tooth enamel, exposing the yellower dentin below the surface. Discoloration can be the result of the natural aging process, illness, genetics, or dark-colored food or drink. Foods and beverages that are both dark-colored and acidic— like wine, coffee, and tomato sauce—have even greater staining power.
What is a teeth whitening product?
Teeth whitener can refer to any product used to remove stains from tooth enamel: toothpaste, DIY strips, and some mouthwashes are safe and affordable and can brighten teeth with continued, regular use. The extent of whitening varies, and it takes dedicated, regular use to see results.
Whitening products that do not contain bleach can usually make teeth two to four shades lighter. These are a good choice for people with sensitive teeth and gums that can react to products containing harsher whitening chemicals. Center for Dental Anesthesia guides pregnant or nursing mothers to select non-bleach whitening products.
Bleaching is more powerful
The term “bleaching” is used to mean a tooth-whitening product that contains a form of bleach, either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, in varying concentrations. For best results, teeth bleaching should be administered in-office by your dentist. Bleaching can ordinarily achieve more noticeable results, sometimes up to seven shades lighter. Intrinsic stains on the dentin, as well as surface stains can be capably lightened under an experienced dentist’s supervision.
Call the professional team at the Center for Dental Anesthesia to schedule a consultation!
Wake Up With a Smile!
CONTACT CENTER FOR DENTAL ANESTHESIA:
703-379-6400
LOCATION (TAP TO OPEN IN GOOGLE MAPS):
5284 Dawes Ave
Alexandria, Virginia
22311
