You don’t have to look hard to find teeth whitening products. Nearly every grocery and drug store has them available. Yet, many still find it hard to get a beautiful bright smile. If you scour the internet, you’ll find a slew of conflict information. Some will boast natural solutions while others will guarantee their “groundbreaking products. However, some of these teeth whitening methods are not healthy or practical.
Are you looking for an effective and safe way to brighten your smile? If so, you’ll find the following information curated by our team at Ivy Rose Family Dentistry to be helpful.
Identifying the Right Teeth Whitening Solution
Before choosing any teeth whitening solution, you’ll need to gain an understanding of the cause of the discoloration. Hence, when our dentists perform an exam before a teeth whitening consultation, we are looking to identify the underlying issue. Some of the more common reasons for discolored teeth are:
- Over time your teeth lose enamel (the naturally occurring barrier around your teeth). As the enamel is diminished, the underlying dentin becomes exposed which is darker.
- What you eat and drink has a direct effect upon your teeth. Coffees, teas, alcoholic beverages and foods containing colorings will change the color of your teeth if consumed regularly. Hence, your oral hygiene regimen will need to meet the demands of your diet. It is also best to get two professional dental cleanings per year.
- Certain prescribe medications can change the pH balance of your mouth or cause dry mouth. Both conditions can result in teeth discoloration. Medication has different effects on people. If you find that the medication that you’re taking is affecting your oral health negatively, it may be best to alert your primary care physician.
- The additives in cigars and cigarettes can discolor your teeth and cause other oral health problems.
Do you have questions about a specific teeth whitening solution? Give our office a call. We can schedule a consultation that will identify the best approach you can take.
