Whitening & Bleaching

At Ann Arbor Smiles we’re serious about smiles, and we’re also serious about brighter smiles. If you want pearly whites, there are more options than you think for whitening & bleaching! Below are some options, but keep in mind not everyone can expect good results. Bleaching will not be able to whiten porcelain crowns or composite tooth-colored bondings. Also, most whitening options are effective for teeth that have yellowed, but are not great for brown and can be ineffective for teeth that are grey or purple. The best option, whether you choose to do over-the-counter or an in office treatment, is to talk to your Ann Arbor Smiles Dentist as they can offer a safe and effective recommendation.

At Home Bleaching

• Tooth whitening toothpastes
• Whitening strips and gels
• Tray based (over-the-counter or made by your dentist)

Professional Whitening and Bleaching

• Take home kits
• In-Office Treatments

Why Professional Whitening?

A dentist can recommend and control the mixture used in the whitening solution. They can also monitor the use of the tray and the effects. Over-the-counter products, used incorrectly (or over used) can lead to temporarily bleached or burned gums.

If you already have sensitive teeth, whitening has the potential to make matters worse. However, a dentist can help recommend a product for making your teeth whiter without making your mouth hurt more.

In the office, a dentist can also add accelerators to the solution, like light and heat to decrease the time needed to make your smile brighter. For dramatic results, brighter shades require several 30-60 minute whitening sessions.

What are the Causes of Yellowing Teeth?

Teeth can yellow regardless of how often your floss or brush. Because some of the causes for yellowing are intrinsic and are caused by things outside of your control. These intrinsic factors for yellowing include things like aging, tooth decay, and trauma. However, you can control extrinsic factors for your teeth changing in color, by quitting smoking, reducing coffee and soda, reducing wine, and brushing with a whitening toothpaste.

Whitening Aftercare

In addition to avoiding tobacco or any tobacco products, to keep your white teeth shining their brightest you’ll also need to avoid acidic and tannin rich foods.

The worst offenders are:

• Black teas and coffee
• White and Red Wines
• Sports drinks, or any drink with artificial coloring
• Carbonated soda – both dark and light are acidic
• Berries, beets, and other strongly colored foods
• Sauces (soy, bragg’s aminos, tomato, curries)

Avoid things that would stain your shirt, as they will also stain your teeth!

To see if you are a candidate for a whitening treatment schedule a consultation with your Ann Arbor Smiles Dentist today!