Teeth Whitening

Overtime, the color of your tooth enamel can change.  If your smile needs brightening to restore it to its previous brilliance, teeth whitening cosmetic dentistry procedures are the perfect place to start.

The professionals at DeBonis Family Dentistry are experts at helping our patients in Ross Township, Ingomar, Sewickley, Glenshaw, Coraopolis, and the surrounding areas obtain whiter teeth.  We love taking the opportunity to discuss whitening procedures with our patients in order for them to achieve the smile they want.

Why aren’t my teeth white?

A variety of reasons cause patients to have less than white teeth.  The causes can be, but aren’t limited to:

  • Age
  • Genetics
  • Injury
  • Medicine
  • Illness
  • Tobacco use
  • Food and drink
  • Excess fluoride as a tooth develops

Fortunately, despite the cause of your yellowing or stained teeth, dental technology has advanced, thus providing you with a variety of solutions which will brighten and whiten your smile.

Can I whiten my own teeth?

Teeth whitening solutions are available both as an in-home treatment and as an in-office treatment.  So, depending on the results you desire, a procedure handled in your own, comfortable environment may suit you.  In other cases, a teeth whitening service administered by a professional in our DeBonis Family Dentistry practice is best.

Self-Applications

A wide range of teeth whitening procedures for at-home care exist.  Take care to choose an ADA recommended product for best results, and consult with our DeBonis Family Dentistry team before beginning an at-home treatments; especially if you’ve had prior dental work.

Toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste is one of the gentlest whitening processes on your teeth and gums.  It can be used following the recommended directions, without the need for professional supervision by our dentist.  Little to no side effects exist as this method utilizes a polishing action rather than chemical reaction. These products are readily available over the counter, yet not all have received the Seal of Acceptance from the American Dental Association, so choose wisely and consult with our dentist if possible.  Whitening toothpastes provide a slower whitening experience, with varying results. Most products show an improvement after one to two weeks of use.

Strips

Whitening strips offer a chemical solution to teeth whitening for at-home procedures.  Results are noticeable after a few days of use. As with whitening toothpastes, select a product that has received the ADA’s Seal of Acceptance or consult with Dr. DeBonis before purchasing.  Because of the chemical composition of strips, you may experience increased sensitivity around your gum line for a short time.

Trays

Whitening trays are a great option for at-home use with the help of a dental professional.  Our professionals at DeBonis Family Dentistry will fit you with a tray, customized to your mouth.  At home, the tray is filled with whitening gel before use. Various gels are available based on your desired outcomes and usage.  

In-office Treatments

Teeth Whitening procedures administered by our DeBonis Family Dentistry team are ideal for tough stains, faster results, and whiter teeth. We are professionally trained to whiten teeth using special treatments. Depending on which in-office treatment is best suited for your whitening goals, a light or laser may be used in addition to our peroxide formula. Tooth and gum sensitivity is lessened with the use of a protecting gel or rubber sheeting to cover the gums. An in-office treatment is typically the most effective way to whiten teeth.

How do I care for my teeth after a whitening procedure?

Over the counter teeth whitening products should be used as directed along with proper brushing and flossing routines.  If using custom-fit trays for an in-home whitening process or sitting through an in-office treatment, we’ll walk you through proper oral care before you leave the office.  

Regardless of your teeth whitening solution, keep your teeth looking great by avoiding foods and beverages that stain.  Also, refrain from the use of tobacco products to retain your brilliant new smile.

Our team at DeBonis Family Dentistry loves seeing the reactions of joy brought forth from a new, whiter smile.  If you live in Ross Township, Sewickley, Glenshaw, Ingomar, Coraopolis, or the surrounding areas, give us a call to begin your journey towards a whiter smile.  We are available at (412) 761-9594.

How can I whiten my teeth?

Depending on your desired results, you may opt for a process you can do from the comfort of your own home, or one that is administered in a dental office.

Self-Applications

There are a range of at-home processes you may use to whiten your teeth. Whitening toothpastes, strips, and trays are some of the more common options.

Toothpaste

This is the gentlest kind of whitening technique. You can use whitening toothpaste at home without the supervision of a dental professional. This technique usually doesn’t have side effects because it whitens using a polishing action instead of chemicals.

Whitening toothpaste can lighten your teeth, but it will not get your teeth as white as other products containing harsh chemicals. When used correctly, it should whiten your teeth slowly over a few days or weeks. While most whitening toothpastes can easily be bought over the counter, they have not all earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. In regards to oral hygiene, it is best to use products that have been reviewed by the ADA and carry their Seal of Acceptance.

Strips

Many brands offer over-the-counter whitening strips. While they can produce the results you desire, they should only be used as directed. If you have any concerns, contact a dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for at-home whitening strips.

Trays

Dental professionals can custom fit a tray for your teeth that you take home and use with whitening gel to brighten your teeth. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have regarding this procedure.

Office Treatments

For tougher stains, quicker change, and a bigger difference, an in-office whitening treatment might be right for you. Dental professionals are specially trained to administer a higher dosage of peroxide to get your teeth whiter than you can at home. A laser or light may also be used along with the peroxide. To protect your gums, the dental professionals may use a gel or thin sheet of rubber. While in-office treatments cannot be done at home, the process is very quick and the most effective.

How do I take care of my teeth after a whitening treatment?

If you are utilizing a toothpaste or strips, carefully follow the instructions included in the packaging. When being fitted for a dental tray or treated for other in-office whitening procedures, the dental professionals will instruct you on how to take care of your teeth after your treatment. In some cases, your teeth and gums may be sensitive or susceptible after a whitening session. To promote white teeth, avoid stain-causing foods, drinks, and tobacco.

DeBonis Family Dentistry loves seeing the joy a whiter smile can bring to patients from Ross Township, Ingomar, Sewickley, Coraopolis, Glenshaw, and the surrounding areas. Give us a call today at (412) 761-9594 to schedule an appointment to go over the ways we can bring that joy into your life!