Teeth Whitening Specialist

What causes tooth discoloration?

The food and drink you consume are the primary causes of tooth discoloration. For example, coffee, tea, wine, and berries can stain your teeth. Cigarettes and tobacco products are another common reason that your teeth become yellow. Fortunately, Dr. Karimian can lift these stains with teeth whitening treatments.

There are other causes of discoloration that affect deeper layers of your teeth and don’t typically respond to topical teeth whitening treatments. For example, certain medications like tetracycline, trauma, and even age can cause the dentin on the interior of your teeth to darken and show through your enamel. These issues are better treated with dental crowns or veneers.

What happens during the teeth whitening process?

Dr. Karimian begins teeth whitening treatment with an exam of your teeth. This helps him determine if a teeth whitening is the best treatment for your discoloration. He also checks that your teeth are healthy enough for the treatment. Then he takes a “before” photo.

Then, Dr. Karimian makes casts of your teeth to create custom bleach splints. Your splints are typically ready in a day or two. When you pick them up, Dr. Karimian will also give you a special bleaching agent and personalized instructions on how to use the bleaching kit. You fill the splints with whitening gel and wear them for a short period of time every day, for several days. Your teeth will become noticeably whiter and brighter in just a few days of treatment.  

Why are professional teeth whitening treatments better than a drugstore kit?

Dr. Karimian provides professional teeth whitening treatments that are more effective and safer than a kit that you can buy in a drugstore. The whitening gel is stronger so you need less time to brighten your smile and reduces the risk of any damage to your tooth enamel. Also, your splints are custom-made to fit your teeth, which reduces the amount of gel that can get on your gums and cause irritation.

Is teeth whitening permanent?

Your teeth will stay bright and white, but the same issues that caused your initial staining can happen again. You can limit future staining by brushing twice a day using a whitening toothpaste and flossing daily. You could also consider limiting your consumption of coffee, tea, and wine. And of course, if you smoke cigarettes or use tobacco products, you should stop.

Professional cleanings and checkups with Dr. Karimian and the team at Tice Valley Dental can help remove minor staining and prolong the effects of your teeth whitening treatment.