Professional whitening may lighten natural teeth. The amount of change varies with the type of stain, starting shade, and treatment used. We will review your teeth and any existing restorations before recommending an option.
Discoloration can have several causes, including diet, medications, and natural tooth color. Whitening may help some stains, while other changes need a different approach. Results and sensitivity vary by patient.
Reach out to us today to begin your journey toward a more radiant, confident smile.
Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening in Palm Beach Gardens?
Store bought and dentist supervised whitening products may both lighten natural teeth. Professional care lets us assess your teeth, existing restorations, and sensitivity before recommending an option. Treatment time and results vary.
Our dentist supervised care includes:
A plan that considers sensitivity and oral health- Treatment options based on your teeth and goals
- Professionally selected whitening products
- Professional guidance on treatment and maintenance
- Review of existing restorations and tooth sensitivity
A plan that considers sensitivity and oral health
How Professional Teeth Whitening Works
In Office Zoom Whitening
At Rudnick Dentistry, we offer Zoom in office whitening and dentist supervised take home whitening kits.
In-office whitening uses a professionally selected bleaching approach. We will explain the steps and whether the Zoom system is appropriate for you. Temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation can occur, and results vary.
Office whitening may produce a shade change sooner than some store bought options. The amount and timing of change vary by patient.
Take Home Teeth Whitening
Our office also offers take home whitening kits. These may lighten natural teeth over a series of uses. The amount and timing of change vary. We can discuss whether this option fits your teeth and schedule.
You can come by our office to pick up your kits today!
Possible Benefits of Teeth Whitening
Whitening may change the appearance of natural teeth. Some patients also feel more comfortable with their smile. Individual experiences vary. Possible benefits and considerations include:
- Smile Appearance:
Whitening may lighten some natural teeth and reduce certain stains. The amount of change varies with the starting shade and type of stain. - Personal Confidence:
Some patients feel more comfortable showing their smile after whitening. This is a personal experience and varies from person to person. - Treatment Choices:
We can discuss office whitening and take home kits, including expected shade changes, sensitivity, and maintenance. - Personal Goals:
Some patients consider whitening before an event or to address tooth color concerns. The shade change possible depends on the teeth being treated. - Maintenance Guidance:
We can explain habits that affect staining and how to care for your teeth after whitening.
A consultation can help you decide whether whitening fits your goals and what shade change may be possible.
Handling Tooth Sensitivity
Whitening can temporarily increase tooth sensitivity with office or home products. The risk varies with the product and the patient. Tell Dr. Rudnick about any existing sensitivity before treatment.
Dr. Rudnick can discuss suitable treatment options and ways to manage discomfort based on your dental history and sensitivity.
Understanding Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is a common dental concern that can affect individuals of all ages, but there are many reasons for tooth coloring as well as many kinds of tooth discoloration.
- Extrinsic stains occur on the outer surface of the tooth (the enamel) and are often caused by external factors such as diet and lifestyle habits. Common culprits include coffee, tea, red wine, dark sodas, and certain foods like berries and tomato sauces. Additionally, smoking or chewing tobacco can leave yellow or brown stains on the teeth.
- Intrinsic stains develop within the inner structure of the tooth (the dentin) and are often more challenging to remove. These stains can result from factors such as excessive fluoride exposure during childhood, certain medications like tetracycline antibiotics, or trauma to the tooth that affects its internal structure.
- Aging also plays a role in tooth discoloration. Over time, enamel naturally thins, revealing the yellowish dentin underneath. Genetics can also influence the natural shade of teeth and how they respond to staining.
Understanding the underlying cause of discoloration is essential for selecting the right whitening treatment. Professional consultations help distinguish between intrinsic and extrinsic stains and determine the most effective way to help your teeth.
Caring for Your Smile After Whitening
After undergoing professional teeth whitening, proper care is essential to keep your smile looking bright and beautiful. Here are some practical tips for maintaining your whitening results:
- Practice Excellent Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a whitening toothpaste approved by your dentist. Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that can cause discoloration.
- Use a Straw for Dark Beverages: Drinking through a straw minimizes contact between staining liquids and your teeth, helping maintain their brightness.
- Schedule Regular Cleanings: Professional cleanings at Rudnick Dentistry help remove surface stains and keep your teeth looking fresh.
- Consider Touch-Up Treatments: Periodic whitening touch-ups can help sustain your results, especially if you frequently consume foods or drinks known to cause staining.
- Avoid Smoking: Tobacco products are one of the leading causes of discoloration, turning teeth yellow or brown over time.
Oral hygiene and regular dental visits help you care for your teeth after whitening. How long the change in shade lasts varies with diet, habits, and the type of stain.
How Diet Impacts Teeth Whitening Results
Your dietary choices significantly influence the longevity of your teeth whitening results. Certain foods and beverages can cause discoloration, while others help maintain brightness and oral health.
Foods to Avoid:
- Dark Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas contain pigments called chromogens that cling to tooth enamel.
- Acidic Foods: Citrus fruits and vinegar-based dressings can erode enamel, making teeth more susceptible to staining.
- Sugary Foods: Candies and pastries contribute to plaque buildup, which can dull a white smile.
Foods to Enjoy:
- Fruits and Vegetables: Crunchy options like apples, carrots, and celery stimulate saliva production, which naturally cleanses the teeth.
- Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt, and cheese provide calcium and phosphates that strengthen enamel.
- Water: Drinking water throughout the day washes away food particles and stains, keeping teeth bright.
Foods, drinks, and tobacco can affect how long whitening changes remain visible. Follow the aftercare instructions Dr. Rudnick gives for your treatment, and ask about any sensitivity or new discoloration.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
“For the first time in my entire life, I can honestly say that I have never felt more comfortable with a dentist (I have pretty bad dental anxiety). He and his staff was very thorough and informative about my future treatment plan and how long the process will be in order to get my smile back. Dr. Rudnick and his staff are very friendly and made me feel like I was at HOME! I am very thrilled to continue my journey to a better smile with Rudnick dentistry!”
– Jessica M.
Achieve a Radiant, Confident Smile
If stains and discoloration are holding you back, let Dr. Rudnick and our dedicated team at Rudnick Dentistry help you rediscover the beauty of your smile.
We can discuss whether whitening is suitable for your teeth and what shade change may be possible with office or take home treatment.
Contact our Palm Beach Gardens office to request a whitening consultation.
