If you've been hiding your smile due to tooth staining and discoloration, you've come to the right place. Dr. Rick Dentistry is proud to offer cutting-edge teeth whitening treatments with stunning results. Here's all you need to know about the benefits of professional teeth whitening compared to over-the-counter (OTC) whitening kits.

What Causes Tooth Staining and Discoloration?

There are many reasons your teeth may be stained and discolored. These include the normal aging process, consuming foods and beverages with staining agents, such as coffee, wine, or berries, and the use of tobacco products. Tooth discoloration can also develop due to medications such as tetracycline.

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening is a straightforward procedure that involves applying hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel to the surfaces of the stained teeth. The bleaching agent works to break down and lift the stains, leaving you with whiter teeth and a brighter smile.

It's important to note that teeth whitening may not work on all types of discoloration. For example, yellow teeth usually show excellent results, while brown or gray teeth may not bleach as well. Moreover, whitening won't work on dental restorations, including fillings, veneers, crowns, or dentures, or if the discoloration results from injury or the use of medications. If teeth whitening doesn't work for you, Dr. Rick may recommend a cosmetic dentistry solution such as dental veneers or cosmetic bonding to restore your smile's sparkle.

OTC Teeth Whitening Kits

There are many different whitening options you can purchase over-the-counter at your local drugstore. These include peroxide-based whitening gels, paints, or Whitestrips. You can also find whitening toothpaste, which contains a mild abrasive that removes some surface stains.

Manufacturers of some OTC whitening kits claim that their products can brighten your teeth several shades. Unfortunately, they often fail to deliver the expected results and can be messy and difficult to use. Worse yet, some of these products can harm your teeth and gums.

Professional Teeth Whitening

In-Office Teeth Whitening: Professional teeth whitening delivers the best and safest results. Unlike OTC kits that only whiten the top layer of tooth enamel, our bleaching agent reaches the deepest layers where the discoloration begins.

Dr. Rick usually completes the treatment in one visit, although you may need additional appointments to lift severe staining. He will start by placing a protective shield over your gums to prevent any irritation and will apply the professional-grade bleaching gel directly onto your tooth surfaces. A specialized laser beam will help speed up and intensify the whitening process to break up the stains. While results can vary from one person to another, most of our patients report teeth several shades whiter and brighter in just one short office visit!

At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening: If you'd rather whiten your teeth at home, we can provide you with custom-made trays and bleaching gel. While at-home whitening may take a little longer, you can be confident that you are using safe products and will achieve your desired results.

Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening Near Me

Visit Dr. Rick's dental practice in Scottsdale, AZ, to learn more about our safe and effective teeth whitening. Dr. Rick will evaluate your unique needs and recommend the best treatment option for results you love. Are you ready for a white, bright, and dazzling smile? Call us and schedule your appointment today!