Teeth Whitening

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic treatment that lightens the color of your teeth and removes built-up stains. As you age, your teeth may appear darker and yellower than they once did.

Does teeth whitening bleach my teeth?

Teeth whitening can bleach your teeth to revitalize their appearance and help you feel more confident when smiling.

How does teeth whitening work?

Most teeth whitening products contain carbamide or hydrogen peroxide. These peroxide solutions contain oxygen molecules that create a volatile reaction when they come in contact with stain molecules, making them easier to remove. 

While over-the-counter (OTC) products contain the same types of peroxides as chairside whitening solutions, they aren’t as potent. As a result, many OTC whitening treatments — strips, toothpaste, rinses, etc. — can only treat extrinsic (surface) stains. Only professional teeth whitening can target intrinsic stains, which lie deeper in the enamel (the teeth’s outer layer).

Who should consider teeth whitening?

The Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates team may recommend professional teeth whitening if at-home options have proven ineffective. There are many reasons adults experience tooth discoloration as they age. Several foods, drinks, medications, and lifestyle habits can increase discoloration, including:

• Red wine
• Coffee and tea
• Soy sauce
• Curries
• Marinara sauce
• Soda
• Certain antibiotics
• Chemotherapy
• Tobacco use
• Poor oral hygiene

Bruxism, or teeth grinding, can also wear away at your protective tooth enamel. This hard layer covers the darker dentin underneath, enhancing the whiteness of your teeth. As the enamel erodes, it exposes the yellower dentin beneath, causing your teeth to appear darker and duller.

What can I expect from teeth whitening?

ZOOM! teeth whitening is a safe, fast, and effective treatment. First, the team cleans your teeth and places protective guards over your gums and lips. Next, they apply a hydrogen peroxide whitening solution to your teeth and let it sit for 15 minutes. They activate a gel with a special LED light to enhance your results.

The team performs this process three times until your teeth reach the desired shade. A full ZOOM! whitening session typically takes about 45 minutes. One treatment can brighten your smile by up to eight shades.

Call Eric Klein D.D.S. & Associates today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about teeth whitening.