What Are Different Ways to Whiten Your Teeth? 

Teeth whitening continues to grow in popularity, with more and more people wanting to achieve whiter, brighter smiles. With so many whitening options available, it can be challenging to determine the one that’s best for you. Depending on different factors, such as your gum and tooth enamel health, the current shade of your teeth, and the cause of discoloration, your trusted team at Highlight Family Dentistry can recommend the best teeth whitening solution for you. 

How Do Teeth Get Dull and Stained?

Tooth staining and discoloration can result from the natural aging process, years of wear and tear, consuming staining foods and beverages, smoking, and using tobacco products. Trauma, certain medications, and some illnesses can also leave your teeth not-so-white and bright. 

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening is a highly safe and effective cosmetic dentistry treatment. It involves the application of a hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide gel to the tooth surfaces. The bleaching agent will lift stains and discoloration, whitening and brightening your smile. 

While most of our patients are perfect candidates for teeth whitening, not all stains will respond the same way. It works best for staining resulting from foods and drinks such as wine, coffee, or berries or from smoking. Yellowish teeth generally respond well, brown teeth may show some results, and gray teeth may not bleach. In addition, whitening won’t lift stains off restorations such as fillings or dental crowns. 

If you are not a candidate for traditional teeth whitening treatments, your trusted team at Highlight Family Dentistry may recommend a different solution, such as cosmetic bonding or dental veneers. 

What Are Different Ways to Whiten Your Teeth?

Over-the-Counter Whitening Products: Numerous teeth whitening products and do-it-yourself kits promise dazzling smiles. You’ll find peroxide-based whitening strips and gels, as well as whitening toothpaste containing mild abrasives that remove minor surface stains. Even though some of these products produce some results, many will disappoint. Moreover, some of the ingredients in these whitening agents can cause tooth sensitivity and may damage your gums and tooth enamel. 

Professional In-Office Whitening: Professional whitening is one of the safest cosmetic dentistry treatments today. It involves placing a shield on the gums and lips to reduce irritation, then applying a peroxide-based whitening agent to the tooth surfaces. A special light will enhance the whitening process. Kick back, relax, and enjoy your favorite Netflix show as the whitening gel whitens and brightens your teeth several shades in just one treatment session. As you leave our office with your dazzling smile, we’ll provide you with a touch-up kit and custom-made trays to maintain your stunning results. 

Professional Home Whitening: If you prefer to whiten your teeth at home, we’ll prepare custom trays made from impressions of your teeth and provide you with a peroxide-based whitening gel. You’ll follow the enclosed directions and wear your custom trays filled with the whitening agent for several days. Even though it may take longer to achieve the desired results compared to in-office whitening, you’ll do so safely, without harming your smile. 

Teeth Whitening Near Me

Visit Highlight Family Dentistry of Hutto, TX, to learn more about your teeth whitening options. Our team will help you determine the whitening method that’s best suited for your smile. You can always count on us for the highest level of care and service. Call us at (512) 886-2644 to schedule your appointment or request one online today!