Teeth Whitening — Ardmore, OK
Professional Teeth Whitening for Beautiful, Bright Teeth
Are you looking to brighten up your smile? Over time, it is natural for
teeth to become discolored, but it is still something that so many people
are self-conscious of. Fortunately,
Dr. Jamie Guthrie
is here to help. She offers both in-office and take-home teeth whitening in
Ardmore, OK. This is a safe and effective way for you to lose surface stains
and achieve gorgeous results in a short period of time.
Give us a call to
schedule your professional teeth whitening for beautiful, bright teeth!
Who is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Tooth discoloration can be caused by many different things. Here are some of the most common culprits:
- Pigmented foods and beverages, like coffee, tea, and red wine
- Using tobacco products
- Sugary and acidic foods
- Aging
- Poor oral hygiene
- Genetics
- Some medications
Some causes of tooth discoloration can be prevented, but some are completely out of your control. There are different types of discoloration: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains occur on the surface of the teeth and are typically caused by foods, beverages, and tobacco products. This is the type of discoloration can usually be lifted with professional whitening. Intrinsic stains can occur as a result of medications, so this is something to discuss with your doctor.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Dr. Guthrie offers two different types of teeth whitening so you can brighten your smile in whichever way you choose:
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
If you are looking to lift discoloration from the comfort of your own home, take-home teeth whitening kits are available. First, Dr. Guthrie will check your smile for any existing oral health issues. Next, you will get customized trays and a whitening gel that is more effective than anything you can find in stores. After about two weeks of wearing these trays for a set amount of time every day, you’ll have a dazzling smile!
In-Office Teeth Whitening
For patients who are looking for faster results, the ZOOM! in-office treatment is a great option. Dr. Guthrie will use safe, effective whitening products to whiten your smile several shades in just one appointment. After an hour, you can walk out of the office with beautifully brighter teeth!
Tips for Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
The results of teeth whitening will last a lot longer if you take the time to maintain it. Here are some tips to help you keep your smile bright:
- Practice excellent oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice and flossing at least once a day.
- Stay away from dark-colored beverages, like coffee and red wine.
- Don’t use tobacco products.
- Attend your six-month dental cleanings and checkups.
- Come see us for touch-up treatments as needed.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Although you would like to have a brighter smile, it is normal to have a few concerns before agreeing to teeth whitening in Ardmore. We will explain everything during your consultation to ease your apprehensions. In the meantime, here are the answers to some frequently asked questions to feel confident about the decision you are making for your smile.
Does teeth whitening hurt?
You have likely heard a few rumors about pain caused by teeth whitening, but you don’t have to worry about any discomfort. Modern whitening solutions are specially formulated to minimize any sensitivity. Not to mention, your cosmetic dentist in Ardmore can cater your treatment to your comfort level, so it’s important to let us know if you are prone to sensitivity. You may also want to avoid any hot or cold foods and drinks for the next couple of days. A sensitivity toothpaste can help block pain signals. It’s best to space out your whitening treatments, including any OTC products and home remedies, to avoid any unpleasant sensations.
How can I make my results last?
Although whitening treatments are more powerful than ever, your results won’t be permanent. While they may not last forever, you can enjoy a bright smile for several years with the right maintenance, like a solid oral hygiene routine at home and visiting your dentist twice a year for a cleaning and checkup. Your dentist will recommend limiting anything that may lead to new stains or discoloration, like darkly pigmented foods and drinks. Drink through a straw if you can’t skip your morning cup of coffee and rinse your mouth with water. If you smoke or use tobacco, it’s best to kick the habit to prevent tar or nicotine stains. If you are interested in a long-term solution, ask your cosmetic dentist about the benefits of porcelain veneers.
Does teeth whitening damage enamel?
Professional whitening systems do not damage your enamel; however, it is crucial that your smile is healthy before undergoing your treatment. Unresolved dental issues, like cavities or gum disease, can be aggravated by the chemicals in the whitening agents. Your cosmetic dentist will examine your mouth to look for any concerns, which will need to be treated before moving forward. Even if you don’t decide to use a professional for teeth whitening, it is best to have a checkup before using any OTC products to ensure there aren’t any adverse reactions to your oral health.
Does teeth whitening work on dental crowns?
Although modern dental crowns look like real teeth, they aren’t porous. As a result, whitening treatments won’t have any effect on restorations, including bridges. Not to mention, whitening agents can weaken the bonding material between your tooth and enamel. Your teeth will naturally change color over the years, so your crown may not blend in as well. A whitening treatment will restore the color of your teeth, but your crown may need to be replaced to restore a seamless transition.