Yes, professional teeth whitening is generally safe and is the most popular cosmetic dentistry procedure in the U.S. It is the safest way to achieve a brighter smile because it is supervised by dental professionals who ensure your teeth and gums remain healthy throughout the process.
Reviewing the anatomy of a tooth can help you better understand tooth discoloration. Teeth consist of a hollow chamber containing nerves and blood vessels (called the pulp), surrounded by a hard yellow sponge-like substance called dentin. Dentin makes up the majority of every tooth. Enamel covers the dentin, protecting the portion of the teeth not encased in jawbone (all but the roots). Enamel is the hardest tissue in the body, is white in color, and can be translucent.
Extrinsic stains are formed when teeth are exposed to substances like coffee, tea, tobacco, red wine, blueberries or chocolate, that cause dark stains in the tooth enamel.
Intrinsic stains happen as a result of aging, clenching, and/or lifestyle changes (like certain medications). Intrinsic stains affect the color of the tooth’s dentin which makes the shade of enamel appear to be darker.
Professional teeth whitening works because a peroxide-based agent is applied to the teeth that reacts and destroys dark colored stains– all the way down to the dentin, leaving teeth visibly brighter.
Professional whitening can penetrate deeper into the teeth to have a longer lasting effect than over-the-counter products. It can be performed during in-office treatments or at-home sessions with a professional grade whitening product. The benefits of working with our team to find the best professional whitening method that works for you, are:
The best professional whitening results require a healthy foundation. If you’re ready to begin your journey to a brighter, whiter smile, start by scheduling your next hygiene visit with us today.
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