Teeth Whitening – Torrington, CT
Convenient Treatment that Produces Dramatic Results
Are you currently dissatisfied with the brightness of your smile? Perhaps it is looking a bit yellow or lackluster. You are far from alone. Many people develop stains and general discoloration over the years — thankfully, these issues do not have to be permanent! Our Torrington, CT, dental team is proud to offer professional at-home teeth whitening kits. Continue reading below to learn how this convenient cosmetic treatment can produce dramatic results.
Why Choose Torrington Dental Care for Teeth Whitening?
- Whiten Whenever & Wherever You Want
- Stronger than Store-Bought Whitening
- Safe & Effective Cosmetic Treatment
Who Is a Good Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
You might be a good candidate for teeth whitening if:
- You have intrinsic (in the enamel) or extrinsic (on the surface of the enamel) dental stains.
- You are dissatisfied with the color of your smile.
- You are looking for an easy and convenient way to feel more confident in your appearance.
During your cosmetic consultation, our team will examine your teeth to make sure that your oral health is good enough for you to undergo teeth whitening.
How Does Take-Home Teeth Whitening Work?
There are two major components that we will provide you with — a special, custom-made tray that fits comfortably over your teeth, and a supply of prescription-strength whitening gel. All you have to do is to fill the tray with the gel and follow our instructions for how long to wear it each day. On average, this process takes about two weeks to complete, though you may start to notice a brighter smile after just a few days.
Tips for Maintaining Your Brighter Smile
Teeth whitening may last for anywhere from a few months to a few years. Here are some tips to keep your smile shining brightly for as long as possible:
- Do not smoke or chew tobacco.
- Limit your consumption of highly pigmented foods and beverages, such as coffee, tea, and berries.
- Eat white dairy products to keep your teeth strong.
- Keep up with a thorough oral hygiene routine. You can use whitening toothpaste to reduce new surface stains.
- Attend regular dental checkups and cleanings.
- Perform touch-up whitening when necessary.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Q: Does Teeth Whitening Hurt?
A: Most patients do not describe professional whitening as painful, but some temporary sensitivity can happen. This usually lasts just a few days and is relatively easy to manage. You can reduce sensitivity by avoiding hot, cold, spicy, and acidic foods. Some people also find that sensitivity-reducing toothpaste and mild pain relievers help as well.
The professional teeth whitening products offered by our Torrington team contain desensitizing agents, but you may still notice some changes in the way your teeth feel. If the discomfort seems prolonged or severe, reach out to our team right away.
Q: How Long Does Teeth Whitening Treatment Take?
A: The amount of time required for this treatment depends on the type of whitening we recommend and the level of brightness you want to achieve.
Many patients notice that their teeth look brighter after just a few days of using their prescribed teeth whitening kit. However, full results usually require two weeks or so.
Q: Does Teeth Whitening Work on Dental Crowns?
A: Whitening products work on natural tooth enamel, not on porcelain, ceramic, resin, or other dental materials. This is simply because the materials used to make restorations are not porous like tooth enamel and cannot absorb the whitening formula. That means crowns, veneers, bridges, and tooth-colored fillings will not lighten the same way your natural teeth do.
If you have visible restorations, we will help you understand how whitening may affect the overall look of your smile. In some cases, it is best to whiten the natural teeth first and then discuss whether older restorations should be replaced to match your new shade.
If you have a discolored crown, you might need to get it replaced.
Q: Is Teeth Whitening Permanent?
A: Teeth whitening is not permanent. Even though it removes stains, it does not stop the process that causes discoloration. Therefore, as you consume dark foods and beverages and your teeth go through a natural aging process, you can expect some stains to gradually return.
Of course, how quickly the stains return depends on your daily habits and other factors. For some individuals, the results of their whitening treatment lasts a few years.
Q: How Can I Make My Teeth Whitening Results Last?
A: You can extend the brightness of your smile by following these tips:
- Brush twice a day with a toothpaste that we recommend for your needs. For example, whitening toothpaste may help to remove new surface stains.
- Floss daily to remove plaque between the teeth.
- Rinse or drink water after coffee, tea, wine, or dark-colored foods. You can also consume dark beverages through a straw to minimize their contact with your teeth.
- Focus on eating a nutrient-rich diet that contains adequate calcium and other tooth-friendly vitamins and minerals.
- Avoid tobacco products, which can quickly stain teeth. If you are struggling to quit smoking, talk with your primary care physician to learn about cessation aids.
- Keep up with routine professional cleanings so we can remove surface stains. Most patients should attend a cleaning twice a year.
- Ask us about touch-up whitening when your smile needs a refresh.