Coffee, wine, and tea are known to stain teeth. Staining may become more noticeable over time
with continued consumption. Often, as people reminisce over photos or look in the mirror, they
notice that their bright smiles have faded overtime. When this occurs, some people decide to try
an at-home whitening treatment. Has this happened to you? Have you considered an at-home
treatment? It may prove to be an effective solution.
If you want whiter teeth, reach out to Columbia Smiles and make an appointment. We can offer
you several in-office whitening procedures, or suggest some at-home teeth whitening solutions.
How At-Home Teeth Whitening Works
It’s natural for teeth to yellow with age. Eating acidic foods can wear down enamel and leave
teeth more susceptible to stains. Smoking can also discolor your teeth. No matter what has
caused staining on your teeth, professional teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry services can
get you the smile you want.
You could choose to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home by using a variety of different
products. These include:
- Whitening toothpaste
- Over-the-counter strips and gels
- At-home whitening kits from your dentist
Whitening toothpaste can help remove stains from the surface of your teeth. This is achieved
by an abrasive in the toothpaste that gently polishes your teeth with each brushing. Using
whitening toothpaste regularly can keep your teeth white, but might not remove all stains from
your teeth.
Another option for teeth whitening are over-the-counter strips and gels. These are applied to the
teeth and kept there for a specified period of time. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations
for the allotted period of time, as the various options may differ. These options can be more
effective than whitening toothpaste.
Your dentist may offer you another option for home whitening. This option typically consists of a
custom-fit tray which holds the whitening solution against your teeth. The tray is filled with the
whitening solution and held in place for a specified period of time. The dentist-provided
whitening solution is typically stronger than what is available over-the-counter.
Is At-Home Whitening Effective?
Yes, at-home whitening kits can be effective, especially if the staining is superficial and the at-
home kit is prescribed by your dentist. This option can bleach the surface of your teeth,
removing the stains. However, these kits cannot remove stains from veneers or crowns, so
speak with your dentist if you’re concerned about discoloration on those materials.
While there are many at home options available, in-office whitening can prove to be both more
effective and safer. Your dentist can use a stronger solution and will monitor your progress
during the treatment. They might be able to use a special light to speed up the whitening
process, as well.
To help maintain your bright new smile, practice good oral hygiene habits like brushing, flossing,
and regularly visiting your dentist. You might experience some sensitivity after whitening your
teeth, but this should go away over time. A toothpaste designed to relieve sensitivity can help.
Contact Columbia Smiles for Cosmetic Dentistry Services
Call Columbia Smiles today to learn more about our cosmetic dentistry, as well as our general
dentistry services. We’ll not only keep your teeth and gums healthy, but we’ll help you feel
confident about your smile.
In addition to in-office and at-home teeth whitening options, we offer:
- Dental cleanings and exams
- Dental veneers
- Crowns and bridges
Our dentists will help determine whether implants, crowns, or veneers are right for you. They’ll
conduct X-rays to look for any potential issues and work with you to achieve excellent oral
Hygiene.
Contact Columbia Smiles to make an appointment for a cleaning or consultation today. We’ve
helped Howard County residents keep their teeth and gums healthy for more than 35 years.
Contact us at 410.690.4855, or contact us online or schedule an appointment online—we’re ready to give you a healthy
smile.
