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Can Teeth Whitening in Longview Restore Your Smile?

December 31, 2018

Filed under: Uncategorized — longviewdentalcenter @ 2:52 pm

Teeth whitening in Longview can make even tired smiles look like new. Prescription teeth whitening uses professional-grade products that provide superior results. The benefits typically last for a year, sometimes longer.profiles of smiling people

Prescription Vs. Over-The-Counter: What’s the Difference?

You’ve probably seen ads for over-the-counter whitening kits that are available without a prescription. The sellers of these products make all kinds of claims for their effectiveness. But do the results live up to the hype? Consider the following:

  • Non-prescription products may do an adequate job cleaning exterior stains. But prescription-grade formulas are designed to break up and remove stains that are buried in the tooth’s inner layers as well.
  • Most non-prescription products come with mass-produced trays that may or may not fit your oral profile. This is never a problem when you use dentist-prescribed whiteners instead. The office will make sure that the tray fits comfortably.
  • With prescription teeth whitening products, you have the option of letting a trained dental professional perform the cleaning, if you prefer. This gives your dentist an opportunity to check your teeth for cavities and other potential areas of concern.
  • Prefer to whiten your own teeth at home? Most offices offer this option. When you choose professional whitening services, the choice is yours.

How Does Prescription Teeth Whitening Work?

Prescription teeth whitening formulas available from your dentist use a concentrated hydrogen peroxide solution that’s from 2 to 5 times stronger than that used in over-the-counter products. Your dentist may also use focused heat or light to make the process faster and more effective. Treatments normally last from 30 to 60 minutes.

Professional products break tooth stains up at the molecular level, dissolving them and letting the teeth’s natural whiteness show through. Whitening treatments work best when the underlying enamel is still healthy and strong.

Sometimes enamel becomes thinner over the years, either due to lifestyle factors or the effects of aging. In such cases, your dentist in Longview may recommend other approaches, such as porcelain veneers.

How Long Do Prescription Teeth Whitening Treatments Last?

Results from a professional whitening typically last for a year or so, sometimes longer. To enjoy the most benefit from the treatment, dentist recommend the following guidelines:

  • Limiting consumption of strongly colored beverages, including fruit and berry juices, coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
  • Drinking alcohol only in moderation or avoiding it all together.
  • Staying away from all tobacco products, including vaping devices.
  • Eating a healthy diet that includes lean protein and calcium sources, fresh fruits and vegetables, and fiber.
  • Drinking plenty of water. Not only will this keep you hydrated, it encourages the production of saliva, which helps to protect your teeth from cavity-causing bacteria.
  • Seeing your dentist twice a year for oral exams and cleanings.

Your dentist may also recommend that you use teeth whitening toothpaste going forward. These products can help you to maintain the benefits you gain from professional treatments.

The new year is a great time to do something good for yourself. Make an appointment to see your dentist about teeth whitening treatments. That’s a great way to keep your smile going all through 2019.

About the Author

Dr. George Stoddard earned his DDS degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio. He has been practicing dentistry for more than 25 years. You can reach his office online or by calling (903) 753-9758.

 

 

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