Most people want to have a bright, white and polished smile, but are not sure how to go about doing so; or they do not think it is possible to have that celebrity smile without paying a celebrity price.
There are several ways people can try to whiten their teeth, such as home whitening strips, toothpaste, whitening kits, and even coconut oil.
Each method varies in price as well as results. Below are more details on how to get the smile you truly want this summer.
What does whitening my teeth involve?
In a nutshell, the process of whitening the teeth consist of removing discoloration and stains from your teeth. The actual details of the process depend on the method you choose.
After the procedure has been completed, it needs to be repeated to maintain your bright polished smile. The frequency of repeating the whitening procedure depends on the whitening method you have chosen.
What causes my teeth to be discolored?
There are several reasons your teeth can experience discoloration. Here is a list of the most common causes of teeth discoloration:
Poor dental hygiene
Tobacco and other drug use
Dark colored drinks/foods
Age
Medication
What are some teeth whitening methods?
A few of the most popular options available to help you achieve a whiter smile are whitening strips, whitening toothpaste, coconut oil, whitening kits, and participating in an in-office whitening procedure.
Whitening strips
Whitening strips can be purchased at just about any pharmacy or store that sells teeth cleaning products. While the instructions vary depending on the brand you are purchasing, generally the package of the whitening strips contains enough disposable strips to last you one or two weeks.
These strips are attached to your teeth and are worn anywhere from 15-45 minutes a day for one to two weeks. The results can last anywhere from two to four months. The results will depend on if the directions are entirely followed as listed on the package.
This process is a DIY process and does not require the supervision of a dental professional.
Whitening toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste is known for repairing the enamel on your teeth while you brush. Repairing/strengthening the enamel makes your teeth stronger, which protect against cracks and stains.
This process also requires you to follow the directions as listed on the packaging, because each brand has different requirements. Some whitening toothpaste has a limit on how often you can use it while others will allow you to use it daily.
Coconut oil
Some people want to find more natural ways to whiten their teeth; coconut oil is one of those options. You put a bit of coconut oil in your mouth and swish it around for about one to two minutes.
The objective is for the oil to trap the bacteria, so once you spit out the coconut oil, the bacteria is also expelled. The oil itself makes your teeth slick, which makes it harder for stains to stick to your teeth. This method is also known as an oral detoxification method.
The next two whitening methods are offered at the practice.
Whitening kits
The at-home whitening kits, also known as tray whitening, consist of a take-home whitening procedure that is entirely supervised by your dentist. Our practice will gather your teeth impressions to make a custom mouth guard or tray which will contain the whitening agents needed for the whitening process. The mouth guards can be worn while you are sleeping or awake; they are incredibly lightweight and will not interrupt your day to day actives. So you will be able to whiten your smile while you work, talk, and even exercise!
This method generally takes three to six weeks to complete. You will see a more gradual and controlled change to the color of your teeth with this method.
In-office teeth whitening
This whitening procedure is usually the fastest option available. This procedure is completed by your dentist while in the office, and can often be completed in one sitting. Although the process takes a fraction of the time compared to other methods, it is still completely safe and very effective. Most people do not have to come back for touch ups until sometime between the 8-12 month timeframe.
Many people choose this option over the others because it takes significantly less time to complete and lasts much longer than the other whitening options.
Can I afford to have my teeth whitened?
The simple answer is yes!
It is true, dental care can be expensive, but don’t forget that neglecting your teeth will be more costly in the long run.
Our practice accepts at least nine different insurance types that will cover or assist in covering most services.
Are you without insurance?
No worries – our practice also offers options for families and individuals without insurance — it is called the “In-House Dental Savings Plan.” For a monthly fee, you receive bi-annual cleanings, doctor exams, and x-rays. On top of that, any treatment, including cosmetic services receive a 15% discount!
So look no further and wait no more; stop by for a consultation and be on your way to a more confident and radiant smile this summer, without breaking the bank! Call Lifetime Dental Health today at (614) 321-1895.
Are you unhappy with your smile? Do you have a chipped tooth or excessive discoloration that stops you from wanting to show your smile to the world? Life is too short to live with a smile that you are not proud of and ready to show off. At Lifetime Dental Health, we are committed to helping you create the smile that you have always wanted, which is why we offer these cosmetic dentistry options:
Teeth Whitening
One of the biggest things our patients want in terms of cosmetic dentistry is a whiter smile. Your smile is the very first thing that people notice about you and a white, shiny smile can help you make a lasting first impression. As we age, our teeth naturally lose their white luster. Additionally, what we eat and drink, as well as habits like tobacco use, can lead to yellow teeth.
To help reverse this discoloration and get your smile to shine again, we offer a couple different teeth whitening treatments. At our practice, we offer in-office whitening treatments that can make your smile look shades whiter with just one visit. We also offer at-home whitening kits with custom bite trays that are filled with a bleaching agent and are used for 3-6 weeks.
However, teeth whitening is not for everyone. If you suffer from gum disease or severely eroded enamel, you may not be a good candidate for this treatment. If you want to learn more about teeth whitening or want our expert opinion on which whitening option is best for you, schedule an appointment to come see us today.
Clear Aligners
Crooked teeth can be annoying, unsightly, and bad for your bite and jaw. Unfortunately, traditional braces can be distracting, uncomfortable, and inconvenient. If you want a straight, perfect smile without the hassle of metal braces, you may be a good candidate for clear aligners. Clear aligners are custom-made for your mouth and gradually shift your teeth over time, correcting your smile. They are almost undetectable, and will not detract from your smile while you are undergoing treatment.
Clear aligners are worn for most of the day, but they can be removed when you eat or drink. This means that you can still enjoy all of your favorite snacks without having to worry about foods that are too chewy, hard, or sticky like you would with traditional braces. If you want to learn more about teeth straightening with clear aligners, contact our office today! We can schedule a consultation and formulate a treatment plan to help make your smile straight and beautiful in no time.
Veneers
If you are unhappy with the size, shape, spacing, or color of a specific tooth, you may be a good candidate for porcelain veneers. Veneers are thin ceramic shells that are bonded to the front of your teeth. They are crafted and color-matched to look like your other teeth. When properly cared for, veneers can last for years and correct a wide array of cosmetic defects.
To prepare your teeth for veneers, we will remove a very small amount of dental enamel from the tooth. We will then use a permanent bonding agent to bond the appliance to your teeth. Veneers are resistant to staining and will help keep your teeth beautiful for years to come. If you are unhappy with the look of one or more of your teeth, ask us about porcelain veneers!
We want you to love your smile, and at Lifetime Dental Health we are here to give you the care you need to make that possible. Come see us today so that we can give you our recommendations for cosmetic dental care! If you want to learn more about any of the options listed above or simply want to set up a consultation, give us a call at (614)-333-9498.
Happy heart, healthy body, and a bright white smile– that’s everyone’s dream. The bright smile that comes with white teeth is a gateway to confidence. Amidst all the brighter teeth and bright smiles are some who only dream about it. Teeth discoloration is as common as it is unwanted.
What is Teeth Discoloration?
Teeth discoloration in plain language is the yellow color of teeth. Normal translucency, color, and the opacity of the teeth are affected, and results in dull, discolored, and patchy yellowing of teeth often occur in many people. Tooth discoloration looks bad and at times gives a negative impression. Usually, the first thing that comes to mind when seeing discolored teeth is that you don’t brush your teeth regularly.
What is the normal tooth color?
Normal tooth color depends mainly upon age, race, oral hygiene routine and diet. It also depends upon the anatomy of teeth. Three layers of teeth called enamel, dentin, and dental pulp contribute to the final color of teeth. The enamel is the outermost layer of teeth covering the inner dentin. Dentin is again a covering around the central pulp which is pinkish due to its vascularity.
Media has, however, defined the normal color of healthy teeth as pure white. Pure white shining teeth shown in the Television commercials is now the goal of every individual irrespective of the fact that heavy editing might be the reason behind. The degree of white is variable from person to person depending upon the factors listed above.
What are the causes of tooth discoloration?
Most important is the lifestyle and diet. Drinking too much coffee, tea, alcohol, and smoking for years puts your teeth prone to discoloration. Similarly, poor oral hygiene is a significant factor and leads to discoloration quickly. Chromogenic bacteria like actinomyces, cardiobacterium, and homophilous also cause extrinsic discoloration of teeth. Certain drugs, for example, tetracycline which is an antibiotic is notorious for tooth discoloration. Genetic disorders and aging are one of the strong reasons as well.
How does smoking cause tooth discoloration?
Smoking is one of the most common factors of tooth discoloration. Caffeine and nicotine tend to stain your teeth and over time, making it almost impossible to keep your teeth from discoloration by merely brushing and cleaning. Tar present in the tobacco makes blackish-brown stains around the teeth neck. Similarly, betel chewing stains the teeth and gives a discolored look.
I suffered from a face trauma some time back. Can I develop discolored teeth?
Trauma may or may not result in tooth discoloration. Immediate reddish discoloration after dental injuries is quite common due to excessive blood supply at the roots of teeth. But, if the pulp necrosis occurs as a result of severe trauma, your teeth may show discoloration after a longer period. Association of tooth discoloration, however, is not always associated with dental trauma.
Tooth discoloration is reversible or not?
Tooth discoloration is reversible or not is dependent on the cause of discoloration. Most of the extrinsic discoloration is reversible especially by reversing the cause of yellowing. It also depends upon the duration of discolorations. Some of the discolorations are too old and stubborn and need special teeth whitening techniques to cure. Some of the examples of reversible tooth discoloration are bacterial infections, recently adopted smoking habits, and avoiding topical medications which cause yellowing of teeth, for example, chlorhexidine and cetylpyridinium chloride. Lifetime Dental can solve all your problems related to tooth discoloration.
What is tooth whitening?
The process of whitening of discolored teeth is called teeth whitening. It is a very popular phenomenon nowadays, and some people try to get their teeth whitening done professionally to give them a confident smile. A professional teeth whitening is a more effective and more reliable way because dentists tend to perform the procedures which are suitable in the long term.
What are the methods of tooth whitening?
You can whiten your teeth at home using some over the counter treatment kits. Dentists offer professional teeth whitening by scaling and polishing your teeth and advise for a healthy lifestyle, eating habits and good oral hygiene routine later on.
What are other options for teeth whitening other than scaling and polishing?
Apart from the usual scaling and polishing of teeth, dental clinics offer other procedures as well that are more effective and have long-lasting results. Some of the other techniques used for teeth whitening are dental crowns, porcelain veneers, tooth bonding, and power bleaching. Lifetime Dental can provide you with all the information you need to know more aboutteeth whitening techniques.
How can I prevent tooth discoloration?
Prevention of teeth discoloration begins very early in life. Parents have a vital role to play in this regard. Developing a healthy oral hygiene routine in the early years of life is the most effective way of preventing teeth from getting discolored. Such individuals tend to keep brushing and cleaning their teeth regularly for the rest of their lives and their teeth appear to stay brighter for longer durations later in life.
A healthy diet and lifestyle is another very important way to prevent teeth discoloration. Having more berries is known to cause brighter teeth with a course of time. Avoiding alcohol and smoking is one good way to prevent your teeth from getting yellow or grey discoloration and at the same time avoiding many other health issues.
Have more queries on Teeth Discoloration? We are just a call away!
One of the best ways to turn your smile from dull to dazzling is by whitening your teeth. The change in the shade makes a considerable difference, especially for those who have been reluctant to show their teeth due to discoloration or darkening. There is no need to hide your happiness any longer. When you whiten with Lifetime Dental Health, flashing a stunning smile will come second nature. You will look better, feel more confident, and be ready to show the world your smile. Here is our complete guide to teeth whitening:
How can I get a whiter smile?
Far more advanced than over-the-counter whitening toothpaste and strips, we go above and beyond when it comes to brightening. We offer both in-office and at-home whitening options with professional-grade strength. For best results, we recommend our in-office whitening. In just one appointment, your teeth will be shades brighter. If you prefer to whiten at home, we offer customized whitening trays and a heavy-duty bleaching agent. While the at-home option may take a bit longer (usually 10-14 days), it will still produce dramatically whiter results and leave your smile brighter than ever.
How does whitening work?
When it comes to stains on your teeth, there are two different classifications; extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains are surface stains, while intrinsic ones are much deeper rooted. Over-the-counter whitening products often target extrinsic stains, while professional whitening products target intrinsic ones, making them more effective. The whitening ingredient in our products goes deep inside of your enamel to help whiten discolored molecules. Simply put, our whitening products brighten your teeth from the inside out.
How long does whitening last?
The effects of whitening can vary from person to person based on dietary and lifestyle differences, but overall they may last up to three years. It is important to care for your smile after it has been whitening with good oral hygiene to maintain your results as long as possible. You should also avoid food and drink that can bleach and stain your enamel. To help maintain your new, pearly-white color, we offer at-home touch up options. We will explain all of this and more when you come in for a whitening consultation.
Will whitening damage my teeth?
Whitening will not damage your teeth or enamel. It is completely safe when done under the supervision of your dentist. You may, however, experience some sensitivity after whitening. This should go away in a few days and is completely normal. If you are experiencing sensitivity, avoid very hard or cold beverages and make sure you are brushing gently with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Look for products with the ADA seal of approval to help with your sensitivity.
If you are whitening at home with our take-home kits and notice sensitivity, take a break between treatments or wear your whitening trays for a shorter amount of time.
Is teeth whitening covered by insurance?
Most of the time, no, whitening is not covered by insurance. However, in general, the treatment is affordable. Prices between in-office and at-home treatments may vary. Come see us to learn more about the cost and to find a whitening plan that is right and affordable for you.
Will whitening damage my restorations?
In general, whitening will not damage restorations such as fillings, veneers, crowns, bridges, etc. It is important to remember though, that whitening will not be effective on many of these appliances. Many of these restorations are made of composite resin or porcelain, and the bleaching agents in whitening products will have no effect on them. When you come in for whitening, we may recommend replacing your appliance to better color-match your new smile.
Are there ways I can do my part in keeping my teeth stain-free?
Even those who take great care of their teeth via brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups and cleanings will likely see dullness, discoloration, and staining over time. It’s only natural and hard to predict or prevent. That said, there are some steps you can take to keep your teeth as white as possible. Refrain from smoking (a health benefit in more ways than one), and limit coffee and tea consumption as well as other dark beverages including red wine. Even chocolate, berries, tomatoes, and sauces can stain. Certain medications may cause tooth discoloration including some antibiotics.
If you are not satisfied with the current state of your smile, it’s time to make a change and start saying “Cheese!” with confidence. You deserve to look your best, starting with a bright white smile. Come see us today to get a smile that you are proud of and teeth that shine.
Most people want to have a bright, white and polished smile, but are not sure how to go about doing so; or they do not think it is possible to have that 
Whitening kits
