Do you feel like your smile is less bright than it used to be? Has your love for coffee dulled your teeth’s natural shine? Teeth whitening can remove years of stains caused by food, drinks, or even smoking. Whether it’s from coffee, tea, tobacco, or just aging, teeth can lose their color over time.
Teeth whitening can help you look younger and feel more confident every time you smile. If you’re not sure if this cosmetic dental procedure is right for you, a quick talk with our dentist can help you decide. Teeth whitening is one of the safest and easiest ways to brighten your smile, no matter your age.
Dr. Trinkner offers both in-office and at-home whitening treatments to remove stains and give you a healthier, younger-looking smile. We use the best professional products to get you the best results.
Types of Teeth Whitening Options in Columbia, SC
Over-the-Counter Whitening
Over-the-counter products like strips, toothpaste, and gels promise fast results. But these products work slowly and don’t give the same brightness you get at the dentist. Some may even have chemicals that can harm your teeth and gums.
In-Office Whitening
For the best results, visit our dental office for professional whitening. Dr. Trinkner uses products that are safe for your teeth and manage sensitivity. Our in-office treatments can give you a whiter smile in as little as one hour. We apply a gel to your teeth, then use a special light to activate the gel and whiten your teeth quickly.
At-Home Whitening
Dr. Trinkner also offers custom at-home whitening trays. We’ll make a tray that fits your teeth perfectly. You can wear the trays for several hours a day or overnight for two to four weeks. At-home whitening is a more gradual process, and you can use the trays to touch up your smile whenever you need.
Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Your teeth might not be as white as they used to be for several reasons. Foods and drinks like coffee, tea, red wine, and berries can leave stains on your teeth. Poor oral hygiene can also cause plaque and tartar buildup, making your teeth look yellow or brown.
Smoking and tobacco products are another big cause of discoloration. The chemicals in tobacco can stain teeth over time. Even though some tobacco stains are hard to remove, a dentist can help lighten them.
Aging is another factor. As we age, the outer layer of enamel on our teeth wears down, exposing the yellow dentin underneath. Certain medications can also darken teeth. Lastly, trauma to the teeth, like a fall, can damage enamel and make teeth look darker.
To keep your teeth looking bright, try to limit staining foods and drinks, brush and floss regularly, and visit your dentist for check-ups. Your smile will thank you!
Before and After Teeth Whitening Case
This gentleman visited our Columbia, SC, dental office for teeth whitening. His front teeth were misshapen and stained. Dr. Trinkner used porcelain veneers to restore the front teeth, and teeth bleaching to lighten the other teeth.
We know that over-the-counter teeth whitening products are available in many stores. While these can work for some people, they’re not as reliable as professional treatments. Results can be uneven due to improper application, and they may also cause sensitivity.
Although professional teeth whitening might cost more, it’s done safely by a dentist to give you better results. We customize the treatment to fit your mouth, unlike store-bought products that take a one-size-fits-all approach. We use dental impressions to create trays that fit your teeth perfectly, making sure we cover all areas.
Teeth Whitening FAQs
Will teeth whitening make my teeth sensitive?
Some people may have sensitivity after whitening, but this is temporary and usually goes away in a few days. You can use special toothpaste or gels to help. The treatment itself shouldn’t cause pain or discomfort to your teeth or gums. If the sensitivity lasts for a longer time or if you feel pain, contact your dentist to check for any issues.
How long do teeth whitening results last?
A whitening treatment at the dentist can last from six months to two years! The exact time depends on things like your lifestyle and eating habits. Smoking, drinking coffee, wine, or soda can shorten how long the results last.
To make your results last longer, brush and floss regularly, and use mouthwash. You might also want to get your teeth whitened every six months to keep them bright, but don’t overdo it—too much whitening can damage your enamel. Ask your dentist how often is best for you.
Can children get professional teeth whitening?
Children under 13 shouldn’t get teeth whitening because their teeth are still developing. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid it, as their teeth might be weaker because of lower calcium levels. Everyone else can use whitening as a safe and effective way to remove stains.
Can I whiten dental work like porcelain veneers and dental crowns and bridges?
Teeth whitening won’t work on restorations like porcelain veneers, dental crowns, dentures or fillings. These materials don’t respond to whitening like natural teeth do. If you want to change the color of your restorations, talk to your dentist about other options, such as replacing them to match your teeth.
How often can I whiten my teeth?
How often you should whiten your teeth depends on several factors, like the shade you want, your current tooth color, and any sensitivity. It’s usually best to wait at least a month between treatments to avoid sensitivity or enamel damage. Your dentist can help you figure out a schedule that works for you.
Will teeth whitening work for all types of discoloration?
Teeth whitening works for most types of discoloration, whether it’s inside the tooth (intrinsic) or on the surface (extrinsic). However, it may not be as effective for deep stains caused by things like medications or tooth trauma. A dentist can help you figure out the best way to get the results you want.
Our cosmetic dentists will give you a result that is beautiful and consistent, instead of blotchy and uneven. Dr. Trinkner can restore your smile to its natural beauty. Call us for effective teeth whitening at 803-400-8729 to schedule a consultation, or request an appointment online. We are your Columbia dental care experts.