If you’ve noticed your teeth starting to shift in color, you may consider whitening your teeth. Several factors impact the color of your teeth, and you may have many questions about the process before you schedule with your dentist.
If you’re considering whitening your teeth with your local dentist, we want you to know all you can about the procedure and tooth discoloration before you get it done.
1. Discoloration Is Normal
If your teeth change color over time, it is important to understand that this is entirely normal. There are many factors that will impact the color of your teeth, even if you’re regularly using whitening products. While some of these factors are things you can change, some of them are outside of your control, and it helps to understand which factors you can change if this is something you feel insecure about. However, tooth discoloration is a normal part of the wear and tear of your teeth and is certainly not something to feel ashamed of.
2. Causes of Discoloration
There are many causes of tooth discoloration. If you’re hoping to brighten your teeth, it is important to understand what factors impact your tooth color. Tooth discoloration can be caused by the following:
Food and Beverage: The food and beverages we consume can impact the color of our teeth. Those who consume a lot of coffee, tea, tomato-based sauce, balsamic vinegar, and red wine may notice staining on their teeth.
Tobacco Use: Regular users of tobacco products, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco, might notice that their teeth are yellowing or browning. This discoloration is because of the tar and nicotine in tobacco.
Genetics: There is a possibility that the color of your teeth is a result of genetics. Some families have thicker, whiter enamels than others, meaning you may have inherited your tooth color from your parents.
Poor Oral Hygiene: Your teeth can change colors without proper oral hygiene. Brushing and flossing prevent plaque and tartar from getting onto your teeth, which can lead to yellowing and browning.
Age: As we get older, our enamel begins to thin. The dark dentin begins to show through more easily as the enamel thins. This thinning and apparent dentin will cause your teeth to look yellow.
3. What Is Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening services can brighten your teeth by several shades. Whitening your teeth in a dental office is more effective than store-bought whitening treatments. With professional treatments, you can remove stains and discoloration that you may not be able to with other whitening treatments, including toothpaste, mouth rinses, or whitening strips.
4. Side Effects Of Whitening Your Teeth
There is potential for side effects immediately following your professional teeth whitening service. These side effects should go away after a couple of days, however. The side effects of whitening your teeth include the following:
Increased Sensitivity: If you’ve just gotten your teeth whitened, you may experience increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. If you have sensitive teeth before your service, it’s important to let your dentist know so they can suggest products to use at home.
Irritated Gums: Your dentist will protect your gums when whitening your teeth. However, if the barrier isn’t applied adequately, you may experience gum irritation. This irritation is uncommon, though it is essential to understand the risk.
Not As White As You’d Like: There is a chance that your teeth cannot get whitened as much as they would like during your whitening service. Some staining is more difficult to lift, and you may require several whitening treatments to get your teeth to your desired level.
No Side Effects: Most people, if they’ve gone through their comprehensive oral history with their dentist, won’t experience any side effects from professional whitening services.
Whitening Your Teeth With Mills River Family Dental
If you’re looking for dental services for yourself and your family, our Mills River Dental team can help. We offer a comprehensive range of dental services, including dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, cleanings, and tooth extractions. If you’re looking for dental services, or are considering whitening your teeth, contact us today.