Teeth Whitening in Sylacauga, AL

Are your teeth looking less than white lately? Whether due to coffee, wine, tobacco, or natural aging, it’s very common for smiles to stain and discolor over the years. Our hygiene team can perform a thorough cleaning allowing your smile to become brighter and whiter before starting your whitening process.

With professional teeth whitening, you can make your smile six to eight shades whiter right before your eyes. For your convenience, we provide you with your own custom-made take-home kit.

Here are some guidelines:

How much whiter will my teeth get with Teeth Whitening?

A: The degree of whitening achieved can vary based on several factors, including the current shade of your teeth, the type of stains present, and the whitening method used. Here’s what you can generally expect:

Factors Influencing Whitening Results

Initial Tooth Color

• If your teeth have a yellowish hue, you are likely to see more dramatic improvements, as this type of discoloration responds best to whitening treatments. Teeth with brown or gray tones, often caused by certain medications or genetics, may not whiten as predictably.

Nature of Stains

• Surface stains caused by food, beverages, and lifestyle habits like smoking typically respond well to professional whitening, achieving noticeable results. Internal stains, however, may require additional treatments such as veneers for a significant change.

Results from Professional Whitening

In-Office Whitening

• Professional in-office whitening treatments can lighten teeth by several shades, often achieving noticeable improvements of up to eight shades brighter in just one visit. This method uses stronger bleaching agents under the supervision of your dentist, allowing for controlled and rapid results.

At-Home Whitening Kits

• Custom at-home whitening kits also deliver effective results, although more gradual. Over a few weeks of use, patients usually see their teeth become several shades whiter compared to their initial color.

Maintaining Realistic Expectations for Teeth Whitening

Desired Shade

• While whitening can significantly brighten your smile, aiming for a natural-looking shade that complements your skin tone and features is vital. Extreme whitening can sometimes lead to an unnatural appearance, so it’s important to balance your goals with professional guidance.

Ongoing Maintenance

Prolonging Results of Teeth Whitening

• Maintaining your teeth whitening results involves good oral hygiene, avoiding staining foods and drinks, and having regular dental check-ups. Discussing touch-up treatments with your dentist helps maintain the desired shade over time.

In summary, while individual results can vary, professional teeth whitening is highly effective at brightening most smiles. Consulting with our team at Southern Smiles in Sylacauga will provide insights into what you can expect based on your unique situation and ensure that your whitening experience meets your expectations.

Understanding Our Teeth Whitening Process

Here’s what you can expect when you choose Southern Smiles for your teeth whitening needs:

Step 1: Initial Consultation

Your journey begins with a consultation to discuss your whitening goals and assess your dental health. Our dental experts—Dr. Rick Redmond, Dr. Casey Price, or Dr. Jenn Reaves—will evaluate your teeth and customize a plan that suits your needs.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Method for Teeth Whitening

Patients can benefit from two main types of whitening:

• In-Office Whitening: Experience rapid results in just one visit. Our professional-grade treatment lifts stains deeply embedded in your teeth, restoring their natural brightness.
• At-Home Kits: For convenience and gradual whitening, we offer custom trays and professional whitening gel, allowing you to manage treatment in the comfort of your home.

Step 3: The Teeth Whitening Procedure

In-Office Whitening:

• Preparation: Your gums are protected with a shielding gel to ensure comfort during the procedure.
• Application: A powerful whitening agent is applied to your teeth, and a special light may be used to enhance the results.
• Results: You’ll see a noticeable difference immediately, with a brighter smile typically in about an hour.

At-Home Kits:

• Customization: After impressions are taken for personalized trays, you’ll receive a professional-grade whitening gel.
• Guide to Usage: We provide instruction on how to apply the gel and trays safely for optimal results over a few weeks.

Teeth whitening is safe for most individuals, especially when conducted under the supervision of a dental professional. However, it’s important to have an initial consultation to ensure your teeth and gums are healthy, as underlying issues can affect results. Pregnant or lactating women, children, and individuals with overly sensitive teeth should consult with their dentist before undergoing any whitening procedure.

The longevity of teeth whitening results varies based on factors like individual diet and oral hygiene habits. Typically, with proper care, the effects can last anywhere from six months to two years. It’s important to maintain regular dental cleanings and avoid stain-inducing foods and beverages to prolong the brightness of your smile.

Maintaining the bright results of your teeth whitening involves a combination of good oral hygiene practices, mindful dietary choices, and regular dental care. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you enjoy lasting brilliance:

Daily Oral Hygiene Practices After Teeth Whitening

Brushing and Flossing

• Consistent daily brushing and flossing are crucial for maintaining a bright smile. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste to brush twice a day, coupled with daily flossing to remove plaque and prevent discoloration.

Choosing the Right Whitening Products

• Consider using whitening toothpaste once or twice a week to polish the surface and remove minor stains while using regular fluoride toothpaste the rest of the time. This balances stain prevention with enamel protection.

Dietary Choices and Lifestyle Habits

Watch Out for Staining Foods and Drinks

• Be mindful of consuming foods and beverages known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and sauces (e.g., soy sauce, tomato sauce). When consuming these items, use a straw for drinks or rinse your mouth with water afterward to minimize contact and staining potential.

Quit Smoking or Tobacco Use

• Tobacco products can lead to yellowing and can quickly negate whitening results. Quitting smoking or avoiding tobacco use supports both your oral health and the longevity of your whitening results.

Regular Dental Check-ups

Schedule Professional Cleanings

• Visit your dentist for regular cleanings at least twice a year. Professional cleanings remove plaque buildup that could dull your smile and provide an opportunity for your dentist to assess the need for touch-ups.

Discussing Teeth Whitening Maintenance Options with Your Dentist

• Consult with your dentist about maintenance whitening to keep your smile bright. They may recommend at-home touch-up treatments using custom whitening trays obtained from your initial treatment.

Additional Teeth Whitening Tips

Stay Hydrated and Rinse After Eating

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to wash away food particles and maintain a clean mouth. Rinse your mouth with water after meals to reduce residue that can lead to staining.

Use a Straw for Dark Beverages

• When drinking dark beverages, use a straw to help liquids bypass the front teeth and minimize their contact with enamel.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can preserve the stunning results of your teeth whitening treatment. With a combination of diligent care and professional guidance, you’ll enjoy a bright and beautiful smile for months to come.

Q: How often can I have my teeth whitened?

A: It’s generally recommended that teeth whitening be conducted no more than once a year to maintain the health of your teeth and gums. Over-whitening can lead to enamel damage or increased sensitivity. Regular check-ups will help monitor the brightness of your smile and determine when a touch-up may be necessary.