Brighten Your Smile at Southern Smiles
If having stained or yellowed teeth makes you feel self-conscious, professional teeth whitening might be the solution you’ve been looking for. Teeth whitening will not only increase your self-esteem and confidence, but it will also enhance your already healthy smile. Fortunately, Southern Smiles, your Jacksonville dental office, offers professional teeth whitening to those looking to give their smile a brand new look.
Call (904) 398-3451 to schedule your teeth whitening makeover with our dentist in Jacksonville today!
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening, also known as tooth bleaching, is a cosmetic dental procedure that involves removing stains and discoloration from the teeth. There are various teeth whitening methods available, ranging from in-office treatments to at-home approaches, each designed to make your teeth appear brighter and whiter. The in-office procedure we offer at our Jacksonville, FL, dental office offers the fastest and most dramatic results. This procedure is performed by our dentist and involves the use of a safe, high-concentration bleaching agent. The entire process usually takes less than an hour and can whiten your teeth by several shades.
Common Reasons Teeth Stain
Tooth discoloration is a common issue that teeth whitening aims to address, developing stains for various reasons, including:
- Foods and beverages: Certain foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and deeply colored fruits like berries contain chromogens, which can attach to the enamel of your teeth and cause staining over time.
- Tobacco use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can lead to yellow or brown stains on the teeth due to the tar and nicotine content.
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque and tartar to build up on teeth, leading to discoloration.
- Age: As you age, the outer layer of enamel on your teeth wears down, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath, which can make teeth appear darker or more yellow.
- Genetics: Some people naturally have thicker or thinner enamel, which can affect the appearance of their teeth. Genetics can also play a role in the natural color of your teeth and how prone they are to staining.
If you’re looking for a pearly white smile, contact our Jacksonville dentist today! We’ll evaluate your oral health and help determine if teeth whitening is the best treatment option. Call us at (904) 398-3451 to get started.
The Teeth Whitening Process
The teeth whitening procedure involves using a special gel containing hydrogen peroxide, and often carbamide peroxide, which is applied to your teeth and activated with a special light. This helps break up any stains or discoloration on your teeth.
The process itself usually takes about an hour, depending on the severity of your staining. Dr. Burton will start by cleaning your teeth to remove any surface debris, and then apply the whitening gel. You’ll then sit back and relax while the light does its magic, usually for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Dr. Burton may repeat this process a few times to achieve the desired level of whiteness.
In-office teeth whitening is a one-time procedure, meaning you can walk out of the office with a noticeably brighter smile in just a single visit!
After Care
Your teeth may be a little sensitive for a few days afterward, so it's best to avoid hot or cold drinks and foods. Teeth whitening isn’t a permanent solution. The effects can last anywhere from a few months to a few years, depending on the individual. To maintain your results, practice good oral hygiene and avoid foods and drinks that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, and red wine. You should also avoid smoking for at least a few days to give your teeth time to settle.
Overall, teeth whitening is a great option for anyone looking to improve the look of their smile. It's quick, safe, and effective, and it can leave you feeling more confident and self-assured. Your dentist in Jacksonville, FL, will be more than happy to answer any additional questions you may have.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
When deciding between over-the-counter tooth whitening products and professional in-office whitening, not only is in-office professional teeth whitening safer, but it also comes with other benefits, such as:
- More effective and efficient: Dentists use specialized products and techniques to remove stains and discoloration, leaving you with a noticeably brighter smile in just one appointment. There is a variety of teeth whitening products available for professional use, ensuring that every type of staining can be addressed effectively.
- Customization: Dentists can tailor the treatment to your specific needs and goals. They can also adjust the strength of the whitening solution to minimize tooth sensitivity and ensure a comfortable experience.
- Safer option: At-home kits or over-the-counter kits can cause damage to your tooth enamel and gums if not used correctly. Dentists are trained to ensure proper bleaching agent application and monitor your progress throughout the treatment.
- Longer-lasting results: With proper aftercare and maintenance, you can enjoy a brighter smile for up to a year or more.
Overall, professional, in-office dental teeth whitening is a worthwhile investment in your oral health and confidence. Call Southern Smiles in Jacksonville, FL, at (904) 398-3451 today to learn more about this effective and safe treatment option.
Candidacy for Teeth Whitening
An ideal candidate for in-office teeth whitening should have the following:
- Healthy teeth and gums
- Commitment to maintaining good oral hygiene
- Realistic expectations
- Surface stains, not due to intrinsic factors
Frequently Asked Questions
How much whiter will my teeth get with professional teeth whitening?
On average, patients can expect their teeth to lighten by several shades. The degree of whitening varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the severity of staining and the natural color of your teeth. While whitening toothpastes can help maintain results, they typically do not offer the same level of whitening as professional treatments.
Is in-office teeth whitening safe?
Yes, in-office teeth whitening is considered safe when performed by a qualified dentist. The bleaching agents used in professional whitening treatments are carefully formulated to minimize sensitivity and protect your teeth and gums.
Does teeth whitening cause tooth sensitivity?
Some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after a teeth whitening treatment, but these side effects are usually mild and subside within a few days. Your dentist can recommend desensitizing products to help alleviate discomfort.
Will in-office teeth whitening work on crowns or veneers?
If you have dental crowns or veneers, your dentist can discuss alternative whitening options or recommend replacing them to match your whitened teeth. In-office teeth whitening is most effective on natural teeth and may not produce significant results on dental restorations.
Can I touch up my in-office teeth whitening results at home?
Yes, your dentist may provide you with at-home whitening products, such as custom-fitted whitening trays and whitening gel, to maintain your results between office visits. Follow your dentist's instructions carefully for safe and effective at-home whitening.
Visit Southern Smiles To Achieve Your Dream Smile
At our Jacksonville, FL, dental office, our team offers teeth whitening services for those wanting to achieve their smile goals. If you're interested in optimizing your smile, we’ll be happy to meet with you.
Contact Southern Smiles, a top-rated dental office in Jacksonville, at (904) 398- 3451 and schedule your appointment today!
