A staggering 45 million Americans, which account for 14% of the population, have had teeth whitening procedures done. At Oak Park Dental, we can whiten your teeth in many ways, including removing surface stain cost-effectively or using light-activated techniques that can give you quick, dramatic results.
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Teeth whitening techniques may work in one of two ways:
Bleaching Procedure
A professional dental bleaching procedure can whiten your teeth anywhere from five to seven shades. Bleaches contain an active agent, usually hydrogen peroxide, or hydrogen carbamide, in concentrations of 10 to 22 percent. These agents can break down the bond between your teeth and stains and make your teeth appear whiter.
A light activated whitening procedure produces more immediate and dramatic results. However, this procedure isn't permanent and after a year or two, your teeth may become discolored again if you do not abstain from dark-colored food or tobacco.
Non-Bleaching Procedure
Non-bleaching procedures remove stains by physical or chemical action. For example, toothpaste with mild abrasion can help your teeth remain stain-free. A professional cleaning at Oak Park Dental also use abrasive action and polishing to remove external surface stains caused by certain food and tobacco.
Different people respond differently to whitening procedures. People with grey teeth or intrinsic discoloration may require other cosmetic procedures like veneers or bonding to get attractive smile. At Oak Park Dental, Dan O'Leary DDS and Carl Stubblefield DMD, and Paul Brannen DMD can determine what's right for you. To schedule an appointment, call us at (971) 600-0211 today.
