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A Brighter Smile Without Changing Your Teeth

Coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and simply getting older can gradually change the color of your teeth. Professional teeth whitening can lighten many types of surface and internal tooth discoloration without changing the shape of your natural teeth.

At Duluth Dental Care, we can assess the cause of your discoloration and help determine whether professional whitening is a good fit for your smile.

What Can Teeth Whitening Improve?

Whitening does not work equally well on every type of discoloration. Existing crowns, veneers, fillings, and other restorations generally do not change color with whitening, which is important to consider before treatment.

Professional whitening may help reduce discoloration caused by:

Coffee, tea, and other dark beverages
Certain foods
Tobacco use
Normal age-related changes
Some types of tooth staining

Why Start With a Dental Evaluation?

A brighter smile isn't the only consideration. Cavities, gum problems, cracks, or significant sensitivity may need attention before whitening.

Your dentist can also help determine whether the discoloration is something whitening can realistically improve. If a tooth has a deeper or unusual color change, another cosmetic or restorative treatment may be more appropriate.

What Should You Expect From Whitening?

The whitening process uses a peroxide-based bleaching agent to lighten the color of your teeth. The amount of whitening and the time required vary depending on the starting shade, type of staining, and whitening method. Temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation can occur after whitening. Your dental team can explain how to minimize discomfort and what to expect after treatment.

Keeping Your Smile Brighter

Whitening isn't permanent. Teeth can gradually pick up new stains from foods, beverages, and tobacco after treatment.

Good brushing and flossing habits, regular dental cleanings, and limiting things that heavily stain teeth can help maintain your results. Your dentist can also advise you about appropriate touch-up treatment.

Teeth Whitening Near You in Duluth, GA

If your teeth look dull or more stained than you'd like, professional whitening may be a simple way to refresh your smile. Duluth Dental Care can evaluate your teeth and discuss whether whitening is the right cosmetic option for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How does professional teeth whitening work?

Professional whitening uses a peroxide-based bleaching agent to break down discoloration and lighten the color of the teeth.

How much can teeth whitening brighten my smile?

Results vary from person to person. The amount of whitening depends on your original tooth shade, the type of discoloration, and the whitening method used.

Does teeth whitening work on crowns or fillings?

No. Whitening products are designed to change natural tooth color and generally do not lighten crowns, veneers, fillings, or other dental restorations.

Can teeth whitening cause sensitivity?

Yes. Temporary sensitivity is a common potential side effect of tooth whitening. Your dentist can recommend ways to manage sensitivity if it occurs.

How long do teeth-whitening results last?

Results aren't permanent. Teeth can gradually become stained again depending on diet, oral hygiene, tobacco use, and other habits.

Is professional whitening better than whitening toothpaste?

They serve different purposes. Whitening toothpaste primarily helps remove surface stains, while professional whitening uses bleaching agents to change the color of natural teeth.

Can I whiten my teeth if I have sensitive teeth?

Possibly, but sensitivity should be discussed with your dentist first. They can determine whether whitening is appropriate and recommend an approach based on your teeth.

Should I get my teeth cleaned before whitening?

A professional cleaning may be recommended when plaque, tartar, or surface staining is present. Your dentist can determine whether cleaning should come before whitening.