Having discolored teeth can make you want to hide your smile when you should be showing it off. Over the counter whitening techniques often don’t give you the results you’re looking for. Dr. Brian Sang of Palmetto Smiles, a dentist in Florence, SC, offers options to take care of your discolored teeth.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Traditional teeth whitening is what you probably think of when you think of a whiter smile. Over the counter methods are often one size fits all, resulting in an uneven treatment or sensitivity because the bleaching gel got on your gums. Professional teeth whitening gives you a bright, even smile and avoids the soft tissues of your mouth.
At Palmetto Smiles, we’re proud to offer in-office teeth whitening by Opalescence Boost. Dr. Sang will talk with you to determine your whitening goals, as Opalescence Boost is customizable. After your first treatment, you may also get a second round if you’re wanting a whiter smile.
To start, the protective resin is applied to your gum line to protect it from the bleaching gel. A mouth support and tongue shield are also administered to ensure that all soft tissue is protected. The dentist will carefully apply the gel to your teeth. It starts working immediately and will remain on for about 20 minutes. After this, you can see if the results are to your liking. If not, another 20-minute interval can be started.
To ensure that you keep your smile white, we also offer take-home whitening kits to purchase for touch-ups.
Porcelain Veneers
Some stains are resistant to traditional teeth whitening options and require something more. For people with staining caused by things like medication or genetics, porcelain veneers are a great solution. They’re shells made of high-quality dental ceramic that cover the front and sides of your teeth. Veneers are designed to be durable and stain-resistant. It makes them a solution that can last for years to come.
For veneers, the dentist will first shave a small amount off of the front of your tooth to make room for the veneer to be placed naturally. Impressions are taken of your teeth for the veneers to be custom-made. When they’re back, the dentist will make sure they’re comfortable for you and look the way you want. They’re permanently bonded to the tooth when you both are satisfied!
Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is one of the most affordable options for getting a whiter smile. It’s also a good choice if you like the idea of veneers, but aren’t ready to commit to a permanent solution. The bonding material is made of a biocompatible resin that can be color-matched to the rest of your smile.
A minuscule amount of your tooth will be shaved away to make room for the bonding material. The material will be mixed up and you can make sure the shade is to your liking. It’s painted over your tooth and can be molded and shaped if you have any chips you’d like to fill as well. When you’re satisfied with the look, the resin is cured and hardened with a special light. It’s then polished to match the shine of your natural teeth.
Tooth Whitening at Your Florence, South Carolina Dentist
Ready to get a whiter smile? Call us or schedule an appointment online.