Common Questions
Teeth Whitening: Common Questions
Whitening safety, what causes stains, keeping your smile white, and what treatment costs.
Should I have my teeth cleaned before whitening them?
Yes. To ensure the whitening gel targets deep stains, plan to have your dental cleaning just before a whitening treatment.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Yes, teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment when performed by a qualified dental professional. However, some people may experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation after treatment.
Will whitening products damage my tooth enamel?
Whitening should not be used on any teeth with active cavities or disease, as the ingredients could cause pain or irritation.
What Causes Tooth Stain?
Many people believe that teeth become stained or discolored due to things like coffee, tea, red wine, or cigarettes. However, our teeth also absorb stains as the years and decades go by, causing our smiles to look darker than before. Even certain types of medications can cause enamel staining.
How to Keep Your Smile White
To keep your teeth white after a treatment, brush twice a day and floss daily to prevent plaque and tartar buildup. Also, rinse your mouth out with water any time you drink a dark liquid or eat something that might stain a white shirt (such as tomato sauce or curry). Schedule a dental cleaning at Elite Dentistry twice a year to have your teeth professionally cleaned; we'll also polish away any surface stains to help your smile stay white.
How much does teeth whitening cost?
The cost of teeth whitening varies depending on the method used and the dental office you choose. At Elite Dentistry, we offer affordable teeth whitening options to fit your budget.
Related Treatment
Teeth Whitening
Professional whitening for a noticeably brighter smile — in-office or custom take-home trays.
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