We all love a sparkling smile, but age, lifestyle habits, and genetics can cause tooth stains over time. The good news is that you can reclaim your youthful glow with professional teeth whitening in Oakland, California. Montclair Dental Care uses proven whitening methods to ensure you achieve your whitening goals in the time you want. Book an appointment with Dr. Kenneth L. Childers and his team to explore our teeth whitening options.
Why are my teeth stained?
Your teeth may have once been naturally bright. However, they can develop yellow or brown stains that affect your confidence over time. Tooth discoloration happens for many reasons, and it generally falls into two main categories:
- Extrinsic discoloration: These are surface stains that affect the outside layer of your teeth (the enamel). They often come from everyday habits like drinking coffee, tea, red wine, or soda. Smoking and certain foods with strong pigments can also leave marks on your enamel. Since these stains sit on the surface, they’re usually easier to remove with professional teeth whitening.
- Intrinsic discoloration: It occurs deeper inside the tooth, within the dentin layer. Causes may include aging, certain medications (like tetracycline), excessive fluoride exposure, or trauma to a tooth. Because intrinsic stains are internal, they can be harder to treat. The dentist may recommend other cosmetic solutions, like veneers or crowns, if professional whitening treatments don’t work.
Tooth stains don’t just affect your smile’s appearance—they dull your confidence. Unsightly stains may make you talk or smile less, affecting social and professional interactions. Don’t let tooth stains hold you back. Reclaim your smile and confidence with professional teeth whitening near Oakland, California.
What are the teeth whitening options available?
Want a whiter smile? There are different paths to get there. Here’s a breakdown of the options to help you decide what works for you.
- Over-the-counter solutions: Store-bought whitening pastes, pens, and kits are readily available in your nearest drugstore. Although cheap and convenient, these over-the-counter solutions rarely work because of poor concentrations. Worse yet, they can cause damage when handled inappropriately.
- In-office teeth whitening: Chairside teeth whitening is the fastest and safest way to achieve a bright smile. It’s administered by a trained dentist who uses high-concentration whitening gels. During treatment, a protective barrier is placed to shield your gums, lips, and cheeks from the whitening agent. Then, we carefully apply the gel to the visible surfaces of your teeth. We may use a special light to activate the whitening agent for faster, deeper penetration. Patients achieve noticeably whiter results within an hour.
- At-home teeth whitening: The dentist can also recommend brightening your smile with customized whitening trays. These trays are pre-filled with clinical-grade gels and worn for a few minutes daily, preferably just before bedtime. Many patients achieve noticeable results after 7-10 days of use.
When you have tooth stains, you’d prefer an option that works and doesn’t damage your smile. Professional teeth whitening is a proven way to achieve safe and effective results.
Is teeth whitening worth it?
Thinking twice about teeth whitening? When performed by trained professionals, it’s one of the best ways to elevate your smile and confidence.
Here are the benefits.
- Improved appearance: There’s no denying that a radiant smile turns heads. Teeth whitening is a simple way to achieve that fresh, bright look.
- Youthful appearance: Tooth stains can add years to your face. A bright, stain-free smile makes you look as young as you feel.
- Confidence boost: When your smile shines, so does your personality. Step into any room without holding back.
- Inspires good hygiene: When your teeth are bright, you’ll be more motivated to brush and floss them to maintain the glow.
- Long-lasting results: Your whitened teeth can last several years with good upkeep.
Can teeth whitening work on veneers and crowns?
No! Whitening treatments only work on natural teeth, not on dental restorations like veneers, crowns, or fillings. You may not see them, but natural teeth have micropores that absorb whitening agents. The bleaching gel penetrates these tiny pores and breaks down the stain molecules, making your teeth look brighter and whiter.
Dental restorations are impermeable, so teeth whitening has little effect on them. To keep your smile looking even and consistent, it’s best to whiten your natural teeth first, then match your restorations to that brighter shade. If you already have old veneers or crowns, Dr. Childers may recommend replacing them after whitening for an even appearance.
Do you need teeth whitening?
KENNETH L. CHILDERS, DDS
Kenneth L. Childers, DDS, is a highly experienced and dedicated dental professional, serving Piedmont and Oakland for over 20 years. A graduate of St. Louis University Dental School, Dr. Childers is a member of the American Dental Association and the California Dental Association. He has held prestigious positions, such as Past President of the Alameda County Dental Society and the Montclair Business Association. Dr. Childers began his journey at the College of the Desert, where he discovered his passion for science. His extensive expertise, commitment to patient care, and community involvement make him a dentist you can trust for your care.
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