Over time, everyone’s teeth tend to become more brown or yellow as the accumulated effects of dark beverages (coffee, tea, red wine, and sodas) and foods (blueberries, tomato sauce, and curries) discolor them. Smoking also has the same effect. Even if you drink water or brush afterwards, teeth inevitably become stained over time.
You may have tried over-the-counter whiteners, such as strips, gels, toothpastes, rinses, or even wearing oral trays for hours each day. Most of them produce disappointing results because they are simply not strong enough to remove years of discoloration, but some may be too harsh.
Some 12% of Americans report having sensitive teeth and you may also have discovered that yours even became painful as you tried to whiten them. You may have considered our professional whitening process, but are concerned that this will make your teeth even more sensitive.
You should have a full exam and discuss your best options for achieving a gleaming new smile with Dr. Marine. Every patient is unique and she may advise you that the sensitivity is due to brushing too hard with a brush that has bristles that are too stiff. Or your toothpaste may have charcoal, popular as a whitener, but which for many people is too abrasive. Some mouthwashes can cause the same reaction. There are alternatives for those with sensitive teeth.
But a pain-sensitive reaction to brushing or whitening could be due to exposed nerves because of receding gums or worn-down fillings for cavities. If your teeth have been damaged by unconsciously grinding your teeth when you sleep, Dr. Marine can make a customized mouthguard to wear at night to protect them. Acid reflux can also wear down enamel and the cause needs to be addressed.
Better than OTC whitening, our Zoom 2 Whitening process can remove 8-10 shades in 45-minutes in the dental chair, while you watch videos or listen to music. We will apply a hydrogen peroxide gel and then activate it with a special light.
We will make sure that the process does not cause additional sensitivity for your teeth. Following your whitening, we advise avoiding hot food and beverages for a few days. Your oral health can benefit from whitening with additional care and maintenance as well. We will send you home with a maintenance kit that will help you keep your new smile gleaming.
Call for an appointment today to have a full dental exam and discuss your whitening goals and options with Dr. Marine. We offer gentle dental care in Glendale for patients of all ages.
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