With Valentine’s Day just a couple weeks away, many patients will be asking our team about teeth whitening. We actually offer two different options for removing discoloration. Do you need at-home or in-office teeth whitening to remove discoloration? What causes teeth stains to form in the first place?
Why Do Teeth Stains Form?
There are actually two different kinds of teeth stains: intrinsic and extrinsic. The intrinsic stains form below the enamel, often causing by injury to the tooth, fluorosis, and tetracycline use. These stains are also known as permanent discoloration because they often respond poorly to teeth whitening. Extrinsic are the most common, forming on the surface of the teeth as a result of smoking, poor oral hygiene, consuming drink with dark pigments, and sugary foods or drinks.
At-Home Whitening
Our home-based system can remove extrinsic and minor intrinsic stains. We create a set of custom-made trays and send them home with the patient, along with a powerful bleaching gel. The patient wears the gel-filled trays daily for about one to two hours. Optimal results may take between a week and ten days. You can then keep the trays and gel for future touch ups.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
Our office-based system can remove extrinsic stains in one visit. After placing a protective covering on the lips and gums, we apply the bleaching gel to the teeth and activate it using a curing light. The stains are then lifted from the surface of the teeth. If you have any questions about our teeth whitening systems, then contact our office today. We can schedule an appointment to talk to the dentist and see which option will best brighten your smile.
ABOUT YOUR PALATINE, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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