tap to content

Along with a snowy white Christmas, everyone longs for a bright white smile for their holiday gatherings and photos.

The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry asked people what they would like to improve most regarding their smile. The overwhelming response: white teeth.

The American Association of Orthodontists found that nearly 90 percent of its patients request tooth whitening.

Dr. John Luther, Chief Dental Officer with Western Dental, offers helpful teeth whitening information and tips below:

  • Why do teeth change colors? Coffee, tea and red wine are three primary staining culprits. So are tobacco (tar and nicotine), aging, and certain medications (some antihistamines, antipsychotics and high blood pressure).
  • How does teeth whitening work? Whitening products contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, two tooth bleaches. They break stains into smaller pieces, making the color less concentrated and the teeth brighter and whiter.
  • Does whitening work on all teeth? No. Bleach works well on yellow teeth, but not as much on brown teeth. And gray tones may not bleach at all. Whitening doesn’t work on caps, veneers, crowns and fillings.

Three ways to put a shine back in your smile:

Whitening Toothpastes: Western Dental recommends Opalesence as a safe toothpaste that has polishing agents to provide additional stain removal effectiveness.

In-Office Bleaching: Chairside appointments usually require only one office visit at Western Dental. A dentist will apply either a protective gel to the gums or a rubber shield to protect the gums. Bleach is then applied to the teeth. A special light or laser might be used to enhance the action of the whitening agent.

At-Home Whitening Kits: Western Dental suggests using kits that include 10 upper and lower whitening trays with a 10-percent hydrogen peroxide gel solution that are applied to each arch for an hour a day, whitening teeth up to six shades lighter. Over-the-counter whitening strips are available, but the results are not as dramatic.

Keep Reading

What should you ask your dentist after your exam?
May 03, 2023 |

What should you ask your dentist after your exam?

A visit to the dentist can sometimes be more than routine, especially if your dentist recommends a customized diagnosis and comprehensive treatment plan for you. Depending on your case, the recommendation could range from a basic filling (most patients) to a dental implant, braces, a deep cleaning or extensive periodontal treatment.  So it’s wise to ask for clarification and further explanation if you have questions.

Read More
Oral Health Affects Your Overall Wellness
March 08, 2023 |

Oral Health Affects Your Overall Wellness

When it comes to overall well-being, good oral health has a bigger impact than you may think. So in honor of World Oral Health Day this month, it’s important to remember that maintaining a healthy mouth is probably one of the most important contributors to looking good, feeling better and living longer.

Read More
February is National Children's Dental Health Month
February 08, 2023 |

February is National Children's Dental Health Month

Today, dentistry’s goal is to break the cycle of dental disease, move beyond the historic model of “drill and fill” and to treat caries, the disease that causes cavities, as a disease that can be prevented. The keys to success for you and your children are easier than you may think.

Read More
chat Chat with us

We’ve updated our Privacy Policy. To learn more about how we collect and use information through our website, please read our Privacy Policy here. By continuing to use this site, you agree to our updated policy.