Teeth Whitening Specialist

Many of the patients at Pingree Smile Center come in seeking a brighter, whiter smile. Dr. Lucy Shah and her team have a number of teeth whitening options available to suit the needs of patients from Pingree Grove, IL, Gilberts, IL, Marengo, IL, and the surrounding areas who are looking to restore or improve their smiles.
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Teeth Whitening Q & A

Why do teeth change color over time?

Many people notice that their teeth will lose brightness and become discolored over the course of time. There are several ways that teeth can change color, but the most common is simply age. The outer surface of teeth is comprised of a hard, thin layer of enamel that is white in color. Directly underneath the enamel is a layer of dentin, which is yellow in color. As people age, their enamel thins, revealing more dentin. In some cases, food and beverages choices can lead to discoloration. Certain foods are more likely to change the color of one’s teeth than others. Examples are coffee, tea, and red wine. Prolonged use of tobacco products can also lead to discoloration.

What are the available teeth whitening options?

Patients have a variety of choices when it comes to whitening their smile. At-home bleaching gel is a good solution for patients who are seeking a gradual brightening effect over a period of time. This process involves custom fitted trays that hold strong whitening gel. The trays are worn during the day, and patients can attain significant whitening over the course of treatment. For those who want a more drastic and immediate whitening effect, in-office bleaching procedures are the best option. Treatment involves the application of a very strong bleaching gel, which is activated by a concentrated beam of light or laser. Laser teeth whitening is among the most common procedures performed at Pingree Smile Center.

What about at-home teeth whitening options?

There are a variety of over-the-counter teeth whitening products available for sale. Many of these products can provide a temporary improvement in the brightness of one’s smile, but none will mimic the effects of an in-office teeth whitening procedure. Whitening toothpaste is a common choice and contains special chemicals or polishing particles that can remove surface stains and brighten teeth. These are a great option for patients who have completed an in-office teeth whitening procedure and want to maintain their smile between visits.