Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dentistry treatments available today. With a variety of effective bleaching options, anyone can achieve a brighter, whiter smile.
To learn all about what causes tooth staining and the benefits teeth whitening can offer, please continue reading the information provided below, or contact our office today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Colin Morton.
- Tooth Discoloration Causes
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Professional vs. At-Home Teeth Whitening
- Teeth Whitening Results
- Teeth Whitening Cost
What Are Causes of Tooth Discoloration?
Some of the most common causes of tooth discoloration include beverages such as coffee, soft drinks, and tea. Over time, consumption of these beverages can alter the color of your teeth. Smoking is another major cause of tooth discoloration. Not only is it bad for your health, it’s bad for your smile. The same goes for chewing tobacco. Certain medications may also result in a discoloration of your teeth. This is particularly true with antibiotics. You may want to ask your physician if your prescribed drug may cause your smile to become discolored. The most unavoidable cause of tooth discoloration is aging. The natural aging process will lead to the steady and slow yellowing of one’s teeth.
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
The most notable benefit of teeth whitening treatment is the improvement in your appearance. A bright, white smile makes you look healthy and attractive. Many teeth whitening patients are able to brighten teeth up to 10 shades with professional-grade treatment. Our patients are often overwhelmed by the amazing difference this simple procedure makes in their overall appearance.
Additionally, teeth whitening can boost your self-esteem. Many people with discolored teeth simply feel self-conscious about the appearance of their smile, and it hampers their self-confidence. After undergoing a teeth whitening treatment, you are less likely to feel unhappy about your appearance and how others perceive you, and that’s something worth smiling about.
“My experience with the office staff and the dental assistants and Dr. Morton, DDS, was one of the best dental experiences that I have ever had.”
Teeth whitening can also be used in conjunction with other treatments, such as dental crowns, to provide a comprehensive smile makeover that improves both the appearance and function of your smile.
Professional vs. At-Home Teeth Whitening
Professional Teeth Whitening
During a professional teeth whitening treatment, Dr. Morton first protects your gums and soft tissues, then applies a powerful whitening gel to the teeth. The gel’s active ingredients help break down surface and deep stains for a noticeably brighter smile. In some cases, a special light may be used to enhance the whitening effects. The entire procedure typically takes about an hour and can leave teeth several shades whiter after just one visit.
DayWhite and NiteWhite Take-Home Teeth Whitening
At our practice, Dr. Morton offers DayWhite and NiteWhite take-home whitening trays. Developed by Philips Zoom, these innovative and convenient bleaching systems are specially formulated to provide a gentle treatment experience with proven efficacy, often allowing patients to achieve a brighter, whiter smile in as little as one week when used as directed. At the time of your appointment, Dr. Morton can provide personalized instructions on when and for how long to wear your DayWhite and/or NiteWhite trays for the teeth whitening results you desire.
Professional teeth whitening treatments, often performed in a single dental visit, typically use stronger whitening agents and deliver faster, more noticeable results. At-home whitening kits, including dentist-provided trays, allow patients to whiten their teeth gradually and conveniently on their own schedule. Some people prefer professional whitening for its immediate results and expert supervision, while others choose at-home options for their flexibility. Many dentists recommend combining both approaches—using professional whitening to achieve the desired brightness and at-home kits for easy touch-ups—to maintain a radiant smile over time.
How Long Do the Results of Teeth Whitening Last?
The results of professional teeth whitening can last anywhere from six months to three years, depending on your oral habits and lifestyle. Factors such as diet, tobacco use, and consumption of staining beverages can affect how long your teeth stay bright. Practicing good oral hygiene, scheduling regular dental cleanings, and avoiding stain-causing foods can help extend your results. Many patients also use custom take-home whitening trays for occasional touch-ups to maintain their desired shade. With proper care and maintenance, your smile can stay noticeably whiter and brighter for years after treatment.
How Much Does Teeth Whitening Cost?
The cost of teeth whitening can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The type of treatment
- The extent of staining
- The number of treatments needed
- Maintenance touch-ups
- Overall oral health
In-office professional whitening generally costs more than at-home options, but it generally delivers faster and more noticeable results. Custom take-home trays and treatment may fall somewhere in between, offering professional-quality whitening at a more moderate price. During your consultation, Dr. Morton can recommend the most effective whitening option for your goals and budget.
Contact Our Office
For more information about teeth whitening, or if you would like to schedule an appointment with Dr. Morton, please contact our office today.