Teeth Whitening
Effective Whitening System for a Healthy Smile in Ferguson
Most of us are after that gleaming Hollywood smile. This might mean that some of us may be embarrassed about stained, yellowing teeth. Although this can be bothersome, the good news is that teeth whitening is highly attainable through effective whitening systems for a healthy smile. At Ferguson Dental Group, we offer a range of options for you to get that white smile you’ve always dreamed of having. There are several ways to do this, and we have different options for different budgets and needs. Simply come in and let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll help you determine the best whitening system for your teeth. Book your appointment today, and you’ll be smiling with glowing teeth in no time!
What Causes Stained Teeth?
Whitening procedures have effectively restored the smile of people with dull, discolored, or stained teeth. The darker tissue of your teeth (known as the dentin) can become exposed as the outer layer of enamel is worn away by the effects of aging or products like caffeine and tobacco. Food particles are naturally attracted to a tooth’s enamel by a certain protein. Dark food products like coffee and tea, berries, and soy sauce are notorious for staining teeth. Over time, teeth actually become more absorbent and vulnerable to staining from food and other substances.
One type of stain—caused by traumatic injuries, medications, and fluorosis—actually begins inside the tooth; brushing and flossing don’t help. Another type of stain—one that can be more easily attacked by brushing, flossing, and rinsing—is caused by external factors such as foods.
The Case for Professional Teeth Whitening
More people today are choosing teeth-whitening procedures to reverse the effects of aging and abuse from food and tobacco stains. Some commercially available “whitening toothpastes” can be somewhat effective at removing stains and making teeth a shade or two brighter. However, many of these products have abrasive substances that can actually wear away your tooth’s enamel.
Whitening agents actually change the color of your teeth, but are only effective on certain types of stains. For example, bleaching agents have a difficult time removing brownish or grayish stains. These products are also not as effective on pitted or badly discolored teeth, or on restorations such as crowns, bridges, bonds, and tooth-colored fillings (porcelain veneers or dental bonding may be more appropriate in this case). Professional whitening performed by our office is considered to be the most effective and safest method; done properly, tooth whitening can last as long as five years. Over-the-counter whitening systems are somewhat effective as long as they are monitored and directions are followed closely.
Give us a call to schedule your appointment and start feeling confident in your smile. Schedule your smile makeover from our team of experts. Reach out to our office by calling 314-522-6300 at your earliest convenience!