If you haven’t done this already, look at all the teeth whitening products you can buy the next time you go to the store.
You can get toothpastes, whitening strips, systems that use trays and gels, and special mouthrinses. We probably missed some things, but you get the point. Americans want whiter teeth and they want them now.
Those products can help, but they won’t work as well or as quickly as professional teeth whitening by a dentist.
If you really want whiter teeth, call any Beaumont Family Dentistry location in Lexington to set up an appointment.
Over-the-counter products
We understand the convenience that comes with picking up something at the grocery or other retail stores. Those products are easy to find and promise results.
The biggest difference is degree. With regular use, that toothpaste you bought can give you teeth that are a little whiter after months of using it (assuming you are not consuming anything that could add new stains to your teeth in that time).
Whitening strips and gels are a little more effective than adding a whitening agent to your toothpaste. The retail versions can show some improvements in a week or so, but the results may only last a few months.
Whitening rinses are simple to use, but they can take up to 12 weeks to show results, according to webmd.com.
Does teeth whitening work? It can. Retail products can get your there – eventually – if you have the patience and persistence to keep using them.
Professional whitening
When one of our patients wants his or her teeth whitened, we know that patient wants results. Knowing that different people have different needs, we offer both in-office and at-home options.
The KoR Whitening system provides fast and long-lasting results through a combination of in-office and at-home treatment. The whitening gel has peroxide that restores your teeth’s ability to absorb oxygen. Your stains are removed as the oxygen is absorbed from the gel.
After your KoR treatment in one of our offices, you will receive custom-fitted trays. You will place gel in the trays and wear them while you sleep. This helps you maintain your new white smile.
KoR works well even on darker teeth. It is comfortable, safe, and effective for teenagers and adults. Plus, it has little if any effect on your tooth sensitivity.
No matter which option you choose, you’ll see results better than you will find with over-the-counter products. Most importantly, you will get that whiter smile you have been thinking about.
Benefits of whiter teeth
If you are thinking about teeth whitening, it’s likely you have been dealing with stains for a while. You also know that a whiter smile helps you look and feel your best.
Maybe you have a special event coming up like a wedding or a high school reunion. You know people will be taking photos, and you want your smile to be the best it can possibly be. Teeth whitening can give you that smile.
A whiter smile is a more confident smile, and when you feel confident, it makes everything a little easier.
Once you have your whiter smile, you want to do what you can to keep it that way.
You probably realize your teeth didn’t become stained overnight. Here are some things that may be contributing to your stains:
– Tobacco. Tobacco products are bad for you and bad for your teeth. Cigarettes and cigars, chewing tobacco, dip, and other products can leave your teeth looking worse for the wear.
– Tea. Tea is often a healthy drink choice, but it also can wear down the enamel on your teeth, making them more susceptible to stains.
– Dark sauces. If you eat a lot of tomato, soy, or curry sauces, it may show on your teeth.
– Sports drinks. These may help you recover faster from your workout, but like tea, they can erode your enamel. Water is always a good alternative after you work up a sweat.
– Soft drinks. Many people enjoy a cold soft drink, but too many aren’t good for your teeth.
Ready to see your new smile?
If you are tired of waiting on that retail whitening product to show results, it’s time to call a professional to help.
Beaumont Family Dentistry has three locations in Lexington to serve patients throughout Central Kentucky. To make an appointment, call any of our offices or fill out our online form today.