In a world where first impressions are important, a brilliant smile helps you put your best foot forward. One recent study found that 76% of adults believe your smile is the most important physical trait in making a lasting first impression. Unfortunately, achieving a winning smile becomes more challenging as various outside factors contribute to dental discoloration, such as age, oral hygiene habits, and diet. That’s why many patients have turned to professional teeth whitening as a quick and effective way to revitalize their smile. At East Longmeadow Family Dental Center, we specialize in transforming smiles with professional whitening, ensuring our patients leave our office with a dazzling smile and newfound confidence.
The Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Understanding what causes teeth to stain or become discolored is the first step toward fixing the problem. Dental stains can be classified into extrinsic, affecting the outer enamel, or intrinsic, which discolors the dentin beneath the surface. Extrinsic stains are often the result of dietary choices, such as coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and certain fruits and vegetables, as well as tobacco use. Intrinsic stains may arise from excessive fluoride use during tooth development, certain medications, and the aging process, which thins the enamel and allows the dentin’s natural yellow color to show through.
The Psychological Impact of a Brighter Smile
A brighter smile can do more than enhance one’s appearance; it can significantly boost self-esteem and confidence. Many people with discolored teeth feel self-conscious about their smiles, affecting their social interactions and quality of life. Professional whitening can alleviate these concerns, providing a safe and effective solution to dental discoloration.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. Store-Bought Kits
With the rising desire for a brighter smile, thanks in part to the ubiquity of phone cameras and social media, there’s been a similar rise in the number of store-bought whitening kits available in your local drugstore or supermarket. While these over-the-counter kits might seem convenient, professional whitening stands out for its dramatic and reliable results.
Professional teeth whitening treatments will produce better results for several reasons. First, they use stronger whitening agents than what you see on the store shelf. Second, professional treatment is designed around the specific needs of the individual and the shape of their mouth. This personalization allows our treatments to offer more significant and longer-lasting results compared to store-bought options. Finally, a professional whitening treatment is designed, implemented, and monitored by a trained professional like Dr. Zirakian. He has the experience and the tools to recommend the best options, solve unexpected problems, and adjust along the way. That’s something no store-bought kit can claim.
Professional Whitening At Home
Our practice offers a customized treatment that begins in the office and that you’ll complete in the comfort of your own home. Unlike generic over-the-counter options that anyone can use at home, we provide trays fitted to your teeth. This custom fit ensures even coverage and maximizes the whitening effect while minimizing tooth sensitivity. You can complete our process in three simple steps:
- At your initial consultation, Dr. Zirakian will examine your oral health and ensure you’re free of any dental issues that could affect the whitening process, such as gum disease or cuts in your mouth.
- Next, Dr. Zirakian will take impressions of your teeth to send to our lab, creating custom trays to use during treatment.
- Once the trays are ready, you’ll come back for a fitting. During this time, we can make adjustments and give you proper instructions on using everything at home.
You’ll need to wear the trays and the special whitening gel for about 30 minutes, twice a day, or overnight. Your teeth may be sensitive for a few hours after using the trays, so we recommend avoiding very hot or cold foods and drinks during that time.
The length of the treatment will vary based on your desired outcome, but we recommend at least two weeks for most patients to see results. Once finished, you can keep the trays to use in the future for additional treatment or touch-up sessions.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Professional whitening offers a safe and effective solution for those looking to enhance the appearance of their smile. Whether you’re seeking to address extrinsic stains from lifestyle choices or intrinsic discoloration due to aging, our customized treatments can provide the desired results. Don’t let dental discoloration hold you back any longer. Contact East Longmeadow Family Dental Center today to schedule an appointment and begin transforming your smile and your self-confidence.
