Are you self-conscious about the color of your smile? Many adults are. Unfortunately, as we age, tooth discoloration is almost unavoidable. It’s not the end of the world, though – there are things you can do. Simple lifestyle changes can make a world of difference in the color of your teeth, and for stubborn stains we offer professional solutions.
Natural Options
A lot of people may want to start with a minimal, natural approach to whiter teeth. This is perfectly fine and can be a good way to determine whether professional intervention is actually needed. There are a lot of things you can do to keep your teeth bright and prevent discoloration in the first place.
Proper Hygiene
This may seem simple, but brushing your teeth properly is really the best way to keep your smile looking its best and brightest. If you like, you can try a whitening toothpaste, although they can increase tooth sensitivity. Poor brushing at home lets plaque develop, and plaque isn’t white. If you ignore the plaque it can turn into tartar. No amount of brushing can remove tartar, but your dentist can. Make sure to keep up your regular dental visits, so that your dentist can remove tartar and properly polish your teeth.
Avoid Tobacco
Smoking is a quick ticket to stained teeth and gums. The smoke can also hinder the normal function of your gum cells, leading to unsightly gum disease. Smoking isn’t the only form of tobacco that can lead to unsightly teeth; chewing tobacco can also produce stains. The dark pigments can wreak havoc on the color of your teeth and leave dark stains that are hard to remove.
Modify Your Diet
Sugary foods and drinks can be bad for you for a lot of reasons, but they can also cause increased plaque buildup and decay – two enemies of a beautiful white smile. One of the most common causes of discoloration from foods dark pigments. Much like tobacco, dark drinks and foods can almost dye the teeth a darker shade. Wine, coffee, and tea are all common culprits. Try drinking water instead to wash your mouth clean.
Professional Whitening
If lifestyle changes don’t give you the results you want, we also offer professional dental whitening. Teeth whitening is an economic option that can offer almost instant results. We offer two forms of chemical whitening: an in-office treatment, and a take-home kit.
In-Office Whitening
We use the Zoom Whitening system in our office, a system designed to be easy and painless. Zoom uses a pH-balanced hydrogen peroxide activated by a special light to break up stains and whiten the teeth. Most patients can expect teeth that are six to ten shades lighter or more, all in less than an hour.
Take-Home Whitening
Some patients may prefer a take-home whitening kit, and we offer three options. The Nite White® line works overnight. Day White® works during the day in as little as two 30 minute treatments. Opalescence® can be customized to fit your schedule and sensitivity level. All three options use custom whitening trays for comfort and a more result.
Schedule a Consultation
Teeth whitening is one of the easiest ways to give your smile an overhaul, and is well within the budgets of most people. To ask about teeth whitening options and how they can fit into your life, ask Drs. Brent Engelberg and Josh Oleari at AH Smiles in Arlington Heights, Illinois. To schedule a consultation, contact our office at (847) 230-9703, or schedule an appointment online.