Over time, stains can dull white teeth by seeping into small cracks in the enamel of the teeth. The enamel can also be worn down by foods and sugar exposing the yellow colored dentin, the main portion of the tooth. As a result, yellow teeth may be caused by intrinsic staining or extrinsic staining. As it would seem, intrinsic discoloration is inside tooth enamel and extrinsic discoloration stains the enamel of the tooth. Extrinsic discoloration is the easiest to remove.

No teeth whitening treatment is permanent. There must be maintenance treatments in order to keep a bright smile. Laser teeth whitening is done at the dentist’s office and can be effective in whitening teeth both intrinsically and extrinsically. It is the easiest to use as it merely involves sitting in a dentist’s chair with an open mouth. This treatment may be the most expensive method but the easiest to maintain.

Teeth whitening gel can be done under a dentist’s supervision at home or can be purchased over the counter. The dentist will fit a tray to the upper and lower teeth, typically concentrating on the front teeth. The patient is sent home with tubes of whitening gel to be applied to the tray for overnight treatment or a prescribed time limit. The over the counter treatment may contain trays but will not be fitted to the patient’s teeth. The gel can also be painted onto the teeth or placed on the teeth by whitening strips. Caution must prevail in using the strips as they must be smoothly applied to avoid streaks. Ease of use may take a back seat to cost as this method is less expensive but requires more effort.

Peroxide teeth whitening is really teeth bleaching and can result in whiter teeth. It is usually not recommended for pregnant women especially if there is a danger the peroxide can be swallowed. No data is available to determine the danger to the unborn child. Peroxide solutions are usually stronger when administered by a dentist as opposed to the over the counter solution. The stronger solutions will result in faster results which can range from 2 to 10 shades lighter. Most teeth whitening treatments result in 2 to 7 shades lighter.

After treatment, avoid dark colored beverages and foods for 1 to 2 weeks. Expect some sensitivity for a few days. Optimum whitening usually takes 2 weeks so avoid further cosmetic dentistry until teeth have fully adjusted and enjoy your bright smile!

We’ve been seeing great results with the new Crest Advanced Seal. While a bit more expensive, these new products are appear to be a glue based product versus a messy gel that leaks out into the mouth. The Advanced Seal are just an easier applied, stronger grip, and offer a cleaner removal over other brands. At nearly $30 these strips are a bit more expensive but worth every penny. Give them a try and whiten your smile today.

How to use Crest White Strips:

• Remove from packing. 2 strips per package.
• Dry teeth with cloth \ paper towel.
• Apply the longer (top) strip in place.
• Apply the shorter (bottom) strip in place.
• Pay careful attention to ensure the strip is centered.

Crest White Strips are by far our first recommendation for individuals wishing to brighten their teeth. In our own experiences we’ve found that teeth will generally lighten up by approximately 1-3 shades when used properly. If Crest White Strips are your choice, take a look at the new advanced strips. These new strips by Crest are less of a gel and more of a glue. Crest White Strips

Home Teeth Whitening Scams are out there. Believe it or not, people are trying to sell items that claim to whiten teeth by “5-6 shades” — a feat that is even hard for professional to guarantee. If something seems too good to be true, chances are it is. Stick with a store bought whitening kit for the best results.