Teeth Whitening Options For You

If you're dealing with persistent and noticeable teeth stains, there are practical options available to maintain a bright smile. Regardless of the cause—whether it's trauma, poor oral hygiene, smoking, or dietary habits—several teeth whitening choices can address the issue. Consider the following three options, weighing their pros and cons to find the most suitable solution for achieving your desired smile.

Over-the-Counter Whitening Treatments

Over-the-counter options like whitening toothpastes, gels, strips, creams, and trays are convenient for at-home use. Easily accessible at local grocery stores or pharmacies, these choices are affordable. However, they work gradually over time, making them less ideal for those seeking immediate results. They are more suitable for individuals looking to maintain a whiter smile or address mild stains over an extended period.

Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional, in-office teeth whitening provides excellent and rapid results. During these treatments, a dentist employs a special bleaching agent with trays. Alternatively, at-home professional whitening offers the flexibility to achieve professional-grade results at home, but the treatment duration is longer compared to in-office procedures. The exact duration can vary between patients.

Dental Bonding

For stubborn stains resistant to previous whitening options, such as those related to trauma, certain antibiotics, or fluorosis, dental bonding is often effective. It's also beneficial for addressing stains caused by small chips or cracks in the enamel. In this procedure, a dentist applies a special composite resin to stained teeth, shaping it to resemble natural teeth. Dental bonding results are prompt, and the resin can be matched to tooth colors.

Frequently Asked Questions about Teeth Whitening 

Is Teeth Whitening Safe?

Although many people mistakenly think that teeth whitening isn't safe, it generally is. Especially when it's performed professionally, teeth whitening is extremely safe for the majority of the population. What patients need to understand is that the overuse of teeth-whitening products can be harmful. This is because tooth enamel is temporarily stripped during the whitening process. If overdone, this stripping can be detrimental to the teeth long-term.

What is the Minimum Age for Teeth Whitening?

Typically, a patient needs to reach their teenage years before getting their teeth whitened. Dentists don't recommend teeth whitening for children or patients who still have any baby teeth. However, adults are typically the best candidates for teeth whitening, no matter what option, because their teeth are developed and have accumulated years of stains.

Teeth Whitening at Greer Dental Studio

At Greer Dental Studio, we offer many solutions for whitening teeth and are happy to discuss each one with you. We can craft a teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry plan that fits your budget and your timeline. Our professional team of dental associates partners with you not only for a healthier smile but also for a bright, white, and straight smile. We are here to help you meet your dental goals, no matter what they might be. Take the first step in getting a whiter smile by calling us today.

You can contact us at 864-259-2590 or request an appointment online.