Staining of the teeth is common and can be a result of many factors. These can include the consumption of food and beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, red wine, etc. In addition, tobacco and various recreational drugs can also cause tooth discoloration. Even certain medications such as tetracycline and fluorosis can leave yellowish deposits on the teeth. Dental bleaching Omaha is an easy and safe procedure that can lighten stains and whiten the color of the teeth, leaving a brighter and more radiant smile.
Many over-the-counter whitening strips, rinses and gels are available at your local drugstore or grocery store. These products generally contain low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to provide surface-level whitening. Overuse of these OTC products can lead to tooth or gum sensitivity, so it is important to follow the instructions that come with them. Professional whitening uses higher concentrations of hydrogen peroxide that penetrate the enamel and dentin to lift and eliminate stains while leaving the structure of the tooth unchanged.
Professional whitening is available in our office dental bleaching Omaha and includes treatments such as Zoom! whitening and Opalescence Boost in-office whitening. These treatment options offer much quicker results than at-home whitening kits and can safely whiten teeth up to 8 shades lighter when done properly. This type of whitening is an excellent choice for patients who are looking to achieve a brighter smile and enhance their confidence.
During the in-office whitening process, we will first place a protective barrier over your gums to prevent irritation. Once this barrier is in place, we will then apply a whitening gel to the surfaces of your teeth that contains hydrogen peroxide. Once this whitening gel is activated with the Zoom! whitening lamp, it will break down the molecules of staining substances such as food and other colored compounds. This process will leave the teeth with a brighter appearance while leaving the tooth’s structure intact.
While teeth whitening can dramatically improve the appearance of your smile, it is important to note that it is not permanent and will require touch-ups periodically over time. However, you can prolong the life of your brighter smile by maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine, visiting us for professional cleanings and avoiding foods or drinks that will stain teeth. We also recommend scheduling regular checkups with our office so that any issues can be addressed as soon as possible.