Teeth whitening is an effective treatment for lightening the color of your teeth. This can reduce stains from coffee, tea, wine and tobacco.
The whitening process uses bleaching agents such as carbamide peroxide to react with the chromogens in your tooth. Depending on the method used, this can be done either professionally or at home.
Whitening
Teeth whitening Harrisonburg VA is a cosmetic dental treatment that can significantly lighten the color of your teeth. The process involves applying a gel that contains hydrogen peroxide to the surface of your teeth for a set amount of time. The results vary depending on your desired whiteness. Some whitening treatments are used at home, while others are done in the dentist’s office.
A whitening session typically takes about an hour. Your dentist will examine your mouth and gums before beginning the procedure to ensure it is safe for you. You may be able to reduce your risk of complications by avoiding foods and drinks that stain teeth, such as dark-colored fruits and vegetables and coffee and red wine.
During the whitening process, your teeth will become dehydrated, making them more susceptible to liquid and food stains. To keep your smile as white as possible, limit your consumption of these items and follow your dentist’s post-whitening care recommendations.
Bonding
Whitening is one of the least-invasive cosmetic treatments available in dentistry, resulting in visibly brighter teeth. It is also the quickest, cheapest way to enhance your smile. However, if your teeth have deep discoloration or are affected by medications or tooth trauma, you might be better suited for other restorative procedures such as porcelain veneers.
Our office offers two popular whitening treatments: GLO whitening and custom-made take-home tray whitening. Both utilize a peroxide-based whitening gel that is applied to your teeth with trays. The trays are specially designed to fit your teeth and the dentist can provide a desensitizer to prevent discomfort.
For a more instant cosmetic enhancement, direct bonding can be used to correct small chips, cracks or gaps in your smile. The dentist can quickly sculpt a composite resin material to cover the imperfection and then use a curing light to harden it. To maintain the appearance of your bonded teeth, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and visit the dentist regularly for routine cleanings and check-ups.
Porcelain Veneers
Veneers are thin porcelain covers that bond with the teeth. They are very sturdy, and they can be shaped to enhance their appearance. They can also be made to look whiter. A dentist can match the color of your veneers to your skin and other teeth to create a natural look. Veneers are more durable than composite resin bonding, and they can be repaired if they chip or crack.
A person with veneers should avoid eating or drinking highly pigmented foods and drinks to protect them. They will need to have regular dental visits and cleanings. Bleaching doesn’t work on them, so the teeth underneath may eventually yellow.
Cosmetic dentistry is a field that requires a lot of skill and creativity. It’s important to choose a qualified Chandler cosmetic dentist Dr. who specializes in this type of work and understands how to get the most natural results possible from the procedure. He will take the time to evaluate your smile and make sure you’re a good candidate for it.
Crowns
Using a resin that hardens upon exposure to a special light, direct bonding covers minor chips and cracks to give teeth an improved appearance. Bonding can also help conceal stains, but it cannot lighten them like whitening treatments can.
A popular cosmetic treatment, professional strength whitening lifts stains and discoloration to brighten your smile. Our office prefers the Kor whitening system, which uses a continuously refrigerated peroxide gel to ensure maximum whitening power. Before the whitening process begins, we will apply a desensitizer to prevent tooth sensitivity during the procedure.
Teeth whitening Harrisonburg VA only works on natural enamel, so it is important to replace old fillings and crowns after the bleaching process to match your new white smile. Avoid eating or drinking foods that will stain your teeth, and schedule regular touch-ups to maintain a beautiful white smile.
