Can Teeth Really Be Whitened?
We all want to look our very best and a healthy glowing smile it a big part of that. Discoloration of teeth over time is incredibly common. Liquids like wine, coffee or even soda can stain the enamel on our teeth; as can some some foods like tomato sauce or curry. Even some medications can cause tooth discoloration. So how can you get a whiter smile? Teeth whitening is a very easy noninvasive method to clean those surface stains, altering the natural coloring of your teeth, and bringing those pearly whites back to life.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Also known as teeth lightening, teeth whitening in a cosmetic procedure used to lighten up the outer layer of your teeth up to eight shades whiter in some cases. There are multiple techniques that can be used to help whiten teeth; from store bought toothpastes and strips, to more professional methods like whitening gels and bleach trays. For the best results in whitening your teeth you’ll want to visit a dentist. Here at Lakeview Dental in Coral Springs we offer three kinds of whitening options.
1. Take Home Bleaching Kits
The most cost effective method to whiten your teeth professionally is that of the take home bleaching kit. Our dental hygienists will take an impression of your teeth and then custom whitening trays will be made specifically for your mouth. Once the trays are returned to us from the lab where they are built, we will bring you in for a fitting to make sure they are correct. During your visit to our Coral Springs dental office we will also give you the whitening gel you will need. This gel is stronger than normal drugstore gel and comes in a specialized syringe. We will then go over all the instructions of how to use the trays and gel at home, making sure you are completely comfortable with the process.
How To Use Teeth Whitening Bleaching Trays
Once home, you will use the custom trays and gel everyday for about two weeks. You only need to place a few drops of gel to the front of each tray. Then place the trays in your mouth and the gel will spread evenly to whiten your teeth. After the few weeks is up you should reach your maximum whitening. The trays can be kept and used for touch up every few months if you wish. Refill syringes of the whitening gel can be purchased from our dental office here is Coral Springs.
2. In-Office Teeth Bleaching In Coral Springs
If you are looking for more instant teeth whitening results, then you might consider in-office bleaching. This quick teeth lightening procedure can be completed in as little as an hour and a half. One of the hygienists here at Lakeview Dental will create a dam around your teeth after slipping a dental cheek retractor into your mouth to keep from any whitening gel from getting on your gums. Then a few rounds of whitening gel will be applied to your teeth until we reach your desired shade of white.
3. Custom Veneers To Whiten Teeth
Every person’s teeth are different and react differently to the bleaching process. If bleaching doesn’t give you the outcome you desire, or our dentist determines the discoloration of your teeth is more severe, than you might consider the third teeth whitening option we offer at Lakeview Dental, custom veneers. Veneers are porcelain plates that are adhered to the front of your teeth using a composite bonding material. For more information on the types of veneers we offer and their cost see our page on dental veneers.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
Depending on the type of teeth whitening procedure you choose the cost does vary. Generally speaking, you would be looking to spend around $300 to $800 depending on how many shades you are looking to whiten your teeth. With veneers the costs begin at about $700 per tooth. There are many factors to consider to determine the actual cost, and that is why it is recommended that you make an appointment here at our Coral Springs office to go over all of your options.
What Are The Risks With Bleaching Your Teeth?
Teeth whitening is considered a safe procedure with very minimal side effects. However a small number of people do experience gum irritation from the bleach and temporary tooth sensitivity after the procedure is completed. It is also not recommended that you try to have your teeth whitened if you have any active cavities or are currently getting ongoing dental work done (ie. implants). When you come in for a teeth whitening consultation we will go over any and all risks involved as well as answer any questions you might have.
So if you are looking for a dentist in the Coral Springs area that specializes in teeth whitening contact us at Lakeview Dental we would be happy to meet with you and assess the best way we can give you the smile you’ve always dreamed of.