Achieving a Whiter Smile

Although most of us begin our lives with our teeth white, over the years the enamel can wear down. It may become stained due to our diet, drinking dark beverages, smoking, or normal aging. Certain medications can also cause stained teeth. Our Los Angeles cosmetic dentist can help you turn back the clock and achieve a whiter smile.

Teeth whitening options

There are three main options for whitening teeth that have been stained through lifestyle factors such as aging or dietary habits. In-office whitening involves the application of a special gel that is painted onto the teeth by our cosmetic dentist in Los Angeles. A light is then used to activate the gel, allowing for the most dramatic results in the shortest amount of time.

Take-home whitening kits are another option. These involve a gel with a lower concentration of active ingredients than the in-office whitening gel, and it can stay on the teeth a much longer period of time. It is used along with a custom-made tray for periods of an hour or more at home.

The least expensive of the three options is the over-the-counter whitening kit. These often contain a gel with a low concentration of peroxide, as well as a mouth tray, strips, or applicator. Drawbacks include the lack of customization and the fact that these kits generally only reach the front teeth.

Maintaining a whiter smile

Once teeth have been whitened, regular brushing and flossing can maximize results, as can avoiding staining habits such as drinking coffee and colas or smoking. It is also important to have maintenance whitening performed as needed.

Source: Dentist Los Angeles

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