It’s clear that a brilliant smile with dazzling white teeth isn’t just for models or the selfie generation. With the global teeth whitening products market expected to reach a staggering $7.4 billion by 2024, nearly everyone wants to achieve that picture-perfect smile.
If you’ve already tried the over-the-counter teeth whitening products, you may be wondering, “How much whiter can I get my teeth?” Professional teeth whitening can get your teeth brighter than at-home products.
What causes teeth to yellow or stain?
It’s worth knowing what causes tooth discoloration in the first place, as preventative care is easier and less expensive in the long run. Overall, preventing teeth discoloration is largely defined by lifestyle choices.
A tooth is made of multiple layers. The outermost layer is the enamel, which is white and thin to the point of being translucent. Tooth discoloration is often the result of stains on the enamel. A lot of what you eat and drink can stain your teeth. Tobacco products are also major culprits of tooth staining.
Dentin is the layer or structure below the enamel. It is naturally a yellowish color. As the enamel becomes thinner (through age, wear-and-tear, certain foods, or poor dental hygiene), the dentin becomes increasingly visible. The dentin can also become a shade darker from taking certain types of medication or from severe trauma (bruising).
Poor oral hygiene can also result in plaque and tartar buildup, which makes teeth appear yellow. In addition to taking care of your teeth at home, schedule regular visits with your dentist for professional cleanings to remove buildup of plaque and tartar.
Getting your teeth whiter
There are a host of over-the-counter teeth whitening products on the market. While these do-it-yourself home kits can work, they still might not get your teeth to the level of whiteness you desire. If you want whiter teeth, see your dentist.
The effectiveness of teeth whitening products is in the peroxide concentration, the bleaching agent that breaks down enamel stains. Where DIY teeth whitening kits contain 3% to 20% peroxide, dentists use whitening formulas that have up to 43% peroxide.
Using products with higher peroxide concentrations gets your teeth looking the whitest they possibly can and in the shortest amount of time. However, applying this higher concentration requires experience and expertise, as improper use can damage teeth and gums, resulting in tooth sensitivity.
William M. Schneider, DDS, has more than 25 years of experience and offers teeth whitening services that are carefully designed to reach a patient’s preferred teeth whiteness. Dr. Schneider’s approach to teeth whitening includes in-office cleanings and at-home treatments with custom whitening trays.
Professional teeth whitening removes the majority of the staining, discoloration, and excess fluoride on your teeth. With continued monitoring and check-ups with Dr. Schneider, your teeth whitening plan can help you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.
Call or request an appointment online today to find out more about teeth whitening and learn how quickly you can get the picture-perfect smile.