In yesterday’s blog, we discussed how to avoid stains on teeth from red wine. We also mentioned two types of teeth whitening – in the dentist office, and at home. Both options have various features and benefits that might speak to your personal needs. Your Northern Chicago dentist, Dr. Brent A. Engelberg, is here to give you an overview of both types.

In-Office Teeth Whitening: Leave it to Your Dentist

Powerful names like Zoom! and Boost seem accurate for teeth whitening procedures that can make your teeth as many as six shades brighter. Results can vary, depending on the initial color of the patient’s teeth, but these in-office whitening treatments are done by an experienced dental team that will do all they can to get the best possible results. Beginning with a thorough dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar, your lips will next be covered to avoid direct exposure to the bleaching gel. This dental-grade hydrogen peroxide gel will be applied to your teeth, and then exposed to the light from a laser. The light helps activate the bleaching gel to deeply penetrate stains. Once your dentist is satisfied, the gel will be removed, and you’ll receive a mineralizing fluoride treatment to keep teeth from developing sensitivity from the process. (more…)

Teeth whitening is one of the most common cosmetic dental treatments people ask for. Whether you opt for in-office whitening, or at-home bleaching, a brighter, whiter smile will make you look younger, and give you more confidence in your smile. But just because you have newly whitened teeth, does that mean you have to avoid that tempting glass of red wine at your next holiday party? Your Chicago dentist, Dr. Brent Engelberg, has some great tips for you to be able to have your white teeth, and drink your red wine, too.

Enjoying Red Wine without Teeth Staining

• Brush Before You Drink:  When you see someone with a purple smile at a party, the stains are actually a result of wine’s dark color sticking to the plaque on their teeth. If you give yourself a good brushing before drinking a glass of wine, your teeth will be much less susceptible to discoloration. However, don’t brush immediately after you drink wine. The high acidity of vino will soften tooth enamel and put your teeth at risk for damage. Wait 30 minutes to an hour before brushing and flossing. (more…)