The sun is high in the sky. Your skin may be a bit more tan than the rest of the year. Your hair might be a shade or two lighter because of all the time in the sun. Your smile should be brighter and lighter, too! Whitening your teeth can be a relatively quick and easy way to refresh your appearance. Over the years, teeth can become dull in appearance making us look a bit older. Whitening can reverse that dull appearance and give you a fresh, new look. There are many over-the-counter whitening treatments, but none can reach the levels of brightness that a professional treatment can reach.
In-office treatment
If you are looking for dramatic results in a hurry, an in-office treatment may be for you. The whitening treatment can be done in just one visit and is usually done in just over an hour. Your dentist will apply a bleaching agent to your teeth and then use a specialized light to stimulate the bleach.
Take-home treatment
If you are not in a hurry, but still want dramatic results, you may want to try a take-home treatment. You will be custom fit with a tray very similar to a mouth guard. Along with the tray, you will be sent home with a bleaching gel and instructions. Depending on your brightness goals, the treatment may take between 10 and 14 days.
When whitening is not enough
There are two types of stains on teeth: extrinsic and intrinsic. Extrinsic stains only affect the external layer of the tooth, the enamel. These types of stains can usually be removed through professional whitening. Intrinsic stains come from within the tooth. These stains are often caused by medication, decay, infection, or damage within the tooth. Whitening cannot impact intrinsic stains. Your dentist can determine which kind of stain you have. If you have intrinsic stains, your dentist can recommend other cosmetic options such as bonding or veneers.
Get a whiter smile for the summertime!
Professional whitening can help you achieve your summer smile goals. Schedule a visit with our Austin, MN practice today by contacting Potach and Mitchell Dental Clinic today at 507-437-6312.
