Teeth Whitening: Let Your Smile Shine
A brilliant, white smile is not only a sign of good health, but also an attractive asset that can complement your entire appearance. To help his patients achieve confident, stunning smiles, Dr. James M. Stein offers both in-office and take-home teeth whitening procedures at his Boston, MA, office. These treatments use a peroxide whitening solution to eliminate stains, giving teeth a whiter, brighter appearance. To learn more about how this treatment can benefit you, contact us today.
Teeth Whitening in Action
Depending on your specific goals, your dentist may recommend in-office whitening treatments or supervised take-home kits.
In-office treatments
During your in-office whitening treatment, we will first thoroughly clean your teeth and gums to remove tartar and bacteria. Once the teeth are clean, a protective shield will be placed over your lips and gums. Next, a peroxide-based gel will be carefully applied to your teeth. A special light will be used to intensify the effects of the whitening solution. Typically this process will be repeated three or four times in 10 to 15 minute intervals. At the end of your appointment, you will have noticeably whiter teeth.
Take-home kits
Take-home teeth whitening kits allow you to safely and effectively whiten your teeth in the comfort and convenience of your own home. Additionally, for patients with extreme tooth sensitivity, the milder whitening solution used in these kits can reduce the risk of discomfort during treatment, while still allowing patients to achieve beautiful results.
To create your custom whitening trays, we will take impressions of your teeth. Once the trays have been fabricated, we will provide the whitening solution and specific instructions for at-home whitening.
CANDIDATES
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment, suitable for most patients who are in good health with no periodontal disease or issues such as bruxism (teeth grinding). Patients should be aware that teeth whitening cannot lighten dental restorations, and is not usually effective for intrinsic stains that occur in the deeper layers of the tooth. Teeth whitening is not recommended for patients 16 years old and younger, or women who are pregnant or nursing.
If you are not a candidate, Dr. Stein can recommend alternative procedures, such as porcelain veneers and crowns, to help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile.
Dr. Stein understands the importance of a beautiful smile in helping patients feel confident. He can tailor a teeth whitening treatment to provide results you can be proud to share.
WHAT CAUSES DENTAL STAINS?
Dental stains can be either intrinsic or extrinsic. Stains that are intrinsic are internal, meaning the dentin (the tooth's bony tissue) darkens or develops a yellowish tint that shows through the enamel.
Extrinsic stains, on the other hand, occur when the enamel of the tooth is discolored. These surface stains are more receptive to teeth whitening treatments.
Some common causes of staining and discoloration include:
- Tobacco use
- Highly-pigmented or acidic foods and beverages, such as berries, wine, tea, coffee, and cola
- Certain medications, such as tetracycline and doxycycline
- Some amalgam restorations, such as those containing silver sulfide material
- The natural aging process
- Genetics
- Trauma to the tooth
Teeth whitening can provide long-lasting results. To help maintain your newly whitened smile, you should break habits such as tobacco use, and undergo regular teeth cleanings every six months. We can also provide touch-up whitening treatments at home or in the office as needed.
CONTACT US
Dr. Stein understands the importance of a beautiful smile in helping patients feel confident. He can tailor a teeth whitening treatment to provide results you can be proud to share.To learn more about teeth whitening, or to begin brightening your smile today, schedule your appointment.
