Many patients will notice tooth stains at some point in their lives. Your teeth can turn yellow if you drink coffee or tea every day, damage your tooth enamel, or smoke or vape. Dr. Chavala Harris provides cosmetic dental treatment with professional teeth whitening in our Durham, NC, dental office.
Our professional teeth whitening services may be the perfect solution if you have dental discoloration, yellowed teeth, or darkened teeth. At Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we offer take-home whitening kits and in-office appointments. With one teeth whitening session, you can achieve a more youthful appearance by removing years of stains and discoloration.
What Causes Tooth Stains?
Tooth discoloration is a common dental issue that affects many people. Teeth can change color for various reasons, and understanding the causes can help you take steps to prevent it. Dr. Harris will also determine the cause of your tooth stains to find the best solution for you.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of tooth discoloration is poor oral hygiene. If you do not brush and floss regularly, plaque and tartar can build up on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth, and over time, it can harden into tartar if not removed. This buildup can make teeth look yellow or dull. Plaque and tartar can also trap food particles and bacteria, leading to staining.
2. Foods and Drinks
Many foods and drinks can stain your teeth. Coffee, tea, red wine, and dark sodas contain pigments called tannins that can easily attach to the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth. These drinks can create yellow or brown stains over time. Dark-colored foods like berries, tomato sauces, and soy sauce can also stain teeth.
3. Tobacco Use
Your teeth discolor when you smoke, vape, or use chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains nicotine and tar, which can cause yellow or brown stains to form on the teeth. The longer a person uses tobacco, the more noticeable the stains become. In addition to staining, tobacco use can lead to dental problems like gum disease and tooth loss.
4. Aging
As people age, their teeth naturally change color. The tooth’s hard outer layer of enamel gradually wears down over time. As the enamel thins, the yellowish dentin (the layer beneath the enamel) becomes more visible, which makes teeth appear darker. Additionally, aging teeth can be more prone to staining from food and drinks.
5. Medications
Certain medications can cause tooth discoloration as a side effect. For example, antibiotics like tetracycline can cause permanent stains while teeth are developing. Antihistamines or blood pressure medications may also discolor teeth.
6. Dental Trauma
When a tooth is hit or damaged, it can damage the nerves inside the tooth and change the tooth’s color. For example, a traumatized tooth may turn gray or dark brown. This discoloration usually results from internal damage and can be permanent without treatment.
7. Fluorosis
Fluorosis occurs when children are exposed to too much fluoride while their teeth are still developing. This can happen if a child swallows too much toothpaste or drinks water with high fluoride levels. Fluorosis will not damage teeth, but it can create white spots or streaks on teeth.
8. Genetics
Some people are more prone to tooth discoloration because of their genetics. The color of your teeth is influenced by the thickness and color of the enamel, which can vary from person to person. People with naturally thinner enamel may find that their teeth appear more yellow or gray. Others may have teeth more prone to staining because of their enamel structure.
Professional Whitening vs. Over-the-Counter Options
Over-the-counter products take a one-size-fits-all approach. Store-bought whitening products are made for the average smile. They don’t account for differences in shape, spacing, or sensitivity. The result is often uneven whitening that doesn’t give you a clean, consistent look.
Professional whitening works differently. Dr. Harris customizes each part of your treatment, from the trays to the strength of the whitening gel.
If you have sensitive teeth, Dr. Harris can adjust the formula so your treatment stays comfortable without sacrificing results. Many patients leave their appointment with a noticeably whiter smile after just one visit.
Take-Home Teeth Whitening Treatment in Durham
Dr. Harris offers take-home whitening kits that work just as well as in-office treatment. Unlike store-bought options, these kits are custom-made for your smile. You still get professional results from the comfort of home. It can take several weeks to see full results, but it’s a great option if you have sensitive teeth or a busy schedule.
How it works:
- We take impressions of your teeth to create custom trays.
- Your trays are ready in about two weeks.
- We show you how to apply the gel and wear the trays.
- You whiten at home, usually over a couple of weeks.
- We check your results and recommend touch-ups as needed.
That’s it! Dr. Harris can provide touch-up treatment after 6 or more months to maintain your results.
Patient Review
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Do you have more questions about your cosmetic options? Read the answers to these frequently asked questions about tooth whitening treatment in Durham, NC.
What is the safest way to whiten teeth?
The safest way to whiten your teeth is under the care of a dental professional. Over-the-counter products might seem convenient, but can cause tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and uneven results.
At Dr. Harris’s office, every whitening treatment starts with a full evaluation of your teeth and gums. She uses professional-grade gel that she adjusts to your comfort level, keeping your smile protected throughout the process.
Can teeth whitening damage teeth?
Yes, but the most common cause is improper use of whitening products, which can result in damage. Some people may experience more sensitivity during and after whitening, but this will usually disappear within a few days.
Dr. Harris minimizes the risk of tooth damage with in-office and take-home whitening. She covers the gums and prescribes the right percentage of active ingredients in the whitening gel she uses.
What do dentists use to whiten teeth?
There are a few different products that dentists use to whiten teeth. Most dentists use some form of the chemical hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth. Many dentists prefer Opalescence Boost, a hydrogen peroxide product. Dentists also use another product known as Zoom! Whitening that uses a special light to help the bleaching gel work more effectively.
What will whiten my teeth quickly?
If you want faster results, professional teeth whitening is the way to go. While drugstore strips and trays can make a small difference over time, they simply can’t match the speed or effectiveness of a treatment done by a dental professional.
Dr. Harris’s whitening treatments use a stronger, dental-grade formula. Many patients see a dramatic difference after just one in-office appointment.
Can I receive a teeth whitening procedure if I have cavities?
No. A tooth can become irritated when bleach is used to whiten it. You should let Dr. Harris fill your cavities before you get any cosmetic treatment.
What can I eat after a teeth whitening procedure?
You can eat most foods after a teeth whitening procedure. But we recommend avoiding dark-colored foods and drinks for the first 24 hours. Your teeth may be more susceptible to staining during this time. Avoid coffee, tea, red wine, and foods like berries or soy sauce.
Schedule A Teeth Whitening Consultation
Are you ready to whiten and brighten your smile? Schedule an appointment with our experienced Durham cosmetic dentist today for quick and effective tooth whitening treatment. You can also call Oak Grove Family and Cosmetic Dentistry at 919-899-4467. We proudly serve patients from Durham, Oak Grove, and the surrounding communities.