Teeth Whitening in Lexington
Most everyone would agree that white teeth lend to a healthier, more vibrant appearance. Stains, discoloration, and yellowing are common teeth issues that can make you feel less confident and self-conscious about your appearance. There is no one too old to whiten and, in fact, just by lightening the shade of your teeth, you can appear years younger!
At Palmetto Dental Associates, Dr. Shull and Dr. Thomas are here to help with expert teeth whitening services in Lexington, Irmo, and Columbia. Our experienced cosmetic dentists can help you learn more about your options for improving your smile. Contact us to schedule an appointment right away.
What Kinds of Teeth Whitening Do You Offer?
We offer take-home teeth whitening at Palmetto Dental Associates. Research studies have shown that take-home whitening trays and accompanying whitening gel provide longer lasting, more predictable results with less relapse in shade and less sensitivity versus the in-office whitening systems alone. Our doctors closely monitor your progress to make sure you have the optimal whitening result possible.
How Does Take-Home Teeth Whitening Work?
The process of having whitening trays made is precise, quick, and easy. One of our friendly dental assistants will take impressions of your mouth so that our doctors can fabricate custom whitening trays that will fit your teeth perfectly. Your trays will be ready for you to begin whitening within a few days.
When you come back to pick up your whitening trays, you will also receive a full set of whitening products and instructions on how best to use everything. After this, just follow the instructions at your leisure and enjoy professional-grade results in the comfort of your own home.
How Long Will I Need to Wear the Trays?
Most people whiten their teeth for 2-8 weeks, depending on the level of whitening desired. You may prefer to sleep in the whitening trays, or you may also wear them for a few hours in the evening after you eat dinner.
Does Whitening Harm My Teeth or Weaken My Enamel?
No. Teeth whitening does not harm your teeth at all; in fact, the whitening gel is actually bacteriostatic and thereby keeps the cavity-causing bacteria at extremely low levels. Teeth whitening is healthy for your teeth!
Any sensitivity you may feel during the whitening process is due to the fluid movement created within the tooth during the whitening process and is nothing to be concerned about. It will subside quickly, and our office also includes some wonderful anti-sensitivity gel in your initial whitening kit.
What Are the Benefits of Teeth Whitening?
As discussed above, there will be less cavity-causing bacteria in your mouth during teeth whitening. Teeth whitening also helps boost your self-confidence and self-esteem. You will no longer feel that you have to hide your smile due to stains, yellowing, or discoloration, and you can feel proud of your appearance.
In addition to these benefits, teeth whitening makes you look more youthful, since stained and yellowed teeth may make you look older than you really are. Teeth whitening is also very affordable and is completely non-invasive, so it’s a good way to get started with cosmetic dentistry in Lexington, even if you’re on a tight budget.
How Do I Keep My Teeth White After Treatment?
The most important ways are to brush twice a day, floss once a day, and get a teeth cleaning and oral exam by Dr. Shull or Dr. Thomas every six months. This consistent oral hygiene helps to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar and keeps your smile healthy.
You also should consider reducing your intake of staining dark beverages such as red wine, coffee, tea, and cola, and if you do drink them, use a straw. Using a straw helps reduce the beverage’s contact with your teeth, preventing stains.
Finally, do not smoke or use any kind of tobacco. Not only is it bad for your oral health and overall health, continued tobacco use after teeth whitening will make your results relapse in a matter of months. Be sure to talk with Dr. Shull, Dr. Thomas, or your physician about smoking cessation if this is a habit of yours.