A bright, healthy-looking smile can make you feel more confident when you talk, laugh and smile. At Oak Park Dental Group, we provide professional teeth whitening in Lenexa, Kansas, for patients who want to reduce certain types of tooth staining and improve the appearance of their smile.
Professional teeth whitening can be used to lighten the appearance of stains and discoloration caused by factors such as aging, foods and beverages, tobacco use and certain other causes.
Our dental team can evaluate your teeth and discuss whether professional whitening may be appropriate for you.
What Is Professional Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment designed to lighten the color of natural teeth.
Whitening products use bleaching agents to break down certain stains and discoloration on the teeth. Professional treatment is provided under the guidance of a dental professional, who can consider the condition of your teeth and recommend an appropriate whitening approach.
At Oak Park Dental Group, whitening may be available through in-office and take-home treatment options.
What Causes Tooth Discoloration?
Teeth can become darker or stained for many different reasons. Common causes include:
- Coffee and tea
- Red wine and other dark-colored beverages
- Certain foods
- Tobacco use
- The natural aging process
- Certain medications
- Fluorosis
- Changes in dental hygiene
- Certain illnesses or dental conditions
Not all discoloration responds to whitening in the same way. During a dental evaluation, your dentist can help determine what may be causing the discoloration and whether whitening is likely to improve it.
Professional Teeth Whitening Options
Depending on your needs, your dentist may discuss different professional whitening approaches.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office whitening is performed at the dental office using professional whitening materials.
This option may be appropriate for patients who want a professionally supervised treatment and are looking to brighten their smile within a relatively short treatment period.
Your dentist will explain what to expect before treatment and determine whether in-office whitening is appropriate for your teeth.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening
Take-home whitening allows patients to whiten their teeth at home using a professional system provided or recommended by their dental team.
Your dentist can provide instructions for using the whitening system and explain how frequently it should be used.
Take-home whitening can be convenient for patients who prefer to complete treatment at home.
Who May Benefit From Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening may be considered if you have natural teeth affected by certain types of staining or discoloration.
You may want to discuss whitening with your dentist if your teeth have become darker because of:
- Coffee or tea
- Soda or other beverages
- Tobacco use
- Aging
- Certain foods
- Other external stains
A dental examination is important before whitening because discoloration can sometimes be related to an underlying dental condition.
Teeth Whitening and Dental Health
Teeth whitening is primarily a cosmetic treatment. It does not replace routine dental care.
Before beginning whitening, your dentist may evaluate your teeth and gums to identify problems that should be addressed first.
Regular dental examinations, professional cleanings and good oral hygiene can help maintain both the health and appearance of your smile.
Can Whitening Make Every Tooth White?
No. Whitening does not necessarily produce the same result on every type of discoloration.
Natural teeth generally respond differently from dental restorations such as crowns, veneers and certain fillings. Existing restorations may not change color when natural teeth are whitened.
Your dentist can evaluate your smile and explain what level of whitening may be realistic for you.
Teeth Whitening and Dental Veneers
Teeth whitening and dental veneers are different cosmetic treatments.
Whitening is designed to lighten certain types of discoloration on natural teeth.
Veneers cover the visible surface of selected teeth and may be used to address concerns involving color, shape and other cosmetic imperfections.
If you are primarily concerned about tooth color, your dentist can help you understand whether whitening or another cosmetic treatment may be appropriate.
How to Maintain a Whiter Smile
After professional whitening, everyday habits can affect the appearance of your teeth.
To help maintain your smile:
- Brush your teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste
- Clean between your teeth every day
- Attend regular dental cleanings
- Follow your dentist’s whitening instructions
- Limit frequent exposure to strongly staining foods and beverages
- Avoid tobacco products
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important for both your oral health and the appearance of your smile.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?
The best way to determine whether professional whitening is appropriate is to schedule a dental consultation.
Your dentist can evaluate:
- The cause of your tooth discoloration
- The condition of your teeth
- The health of your gums
- Existing dental restorations
- Your cosmetic goals
Based on the evaluation, your dentist can explain whether whitening or another cosmetic treatment may better address your concerns.
Professional Teeth Whitening in Lenexa, KS
If you want to brighten your smile, Oak Park Dental Group provides professional teeth whitening in Lenexa, Kansas.
Our cosmetic dentistry services also include dental veneers and cosmetic tooth contouring. Your dentist can help you understand the differences between these treatments and determine which options may be appropriate for your smile.
Call 913-492-9660 to schedule a consultation and learn more about professional teeth whitening in Lenexa.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
What is professional teeth whitening?
Professional teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental treatment that uses whitening materials to lighten certain types of tooth staining and discoloration.
How does professional teeth whitening work?
Whitening products contain bleaching agents that can break down certain stains and lighten the appearance of natural teeth. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate whitening approach based on your teeth and cosmetic goals.
Is professional teeth whitening safe?
Professional whitening should be performed according to the directions provided by your dental professional. Your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums before treatment and explain how to use the whitening system appropriately.
Can teeth whitening remove all stains?
No. The response to whitening depends on the type and cause of discoloration. Some stains may respond better than others, while certain discoloration may require a different cosmetic treatment.
Can veneers be whitened?
Whitening treatments generally affect natural tooth structure rather than changing the color of existing restorations. If you have veneers, crowns or other restorations, discuss your whitening goals with your dentist before treatment.
Is in-office or take-home whitening better?
Both options have different advantages. In-office whitening is performed at the dental office, while take-home systems allow you to complete treatment at home. Your dentist can explain which option may be appropriate for your needs.
How long does teeth whitening take?
Treatment time depends on the whitening system used and your individual situation. Your dentist can explain the expected treatment schedule during your consultation.
Will teeth whitening make my teeth permanently white?
No. Tooth color can change over time because of aging, diet, tobacco use and other factors. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following your dentist’s recommendations can help preserve the results.
Can I whiten my teeth if I have cavities?
Existing dental problems should be evaluated before cosmetic whitening. Your dentist can determine whether any treatment is needed before you begin whitening.
Where can I get professional teeth whitening in Lenexa, KS?
Oak Park Dental Group provides professional teeth whitening in Lenexa, Kansas. Call 913-492-9660 to schedule a consultation.