Understanding Types of Tooth Stains and What to Expect from Teeth Whitening

Introduction

A bright smile is a powerful asset, but tooth stains can often dull its brilliance. Understanding the different types of tooth stains and how they respond to teeth whitening treatments can help you achieve the best results. At Ever Bright Teeth Whitening, we specialize in helping you restore the natural beauty of your smile. Here’s what you need to know about tooth stains and what to expect from our whitening services.

Types of Tooth Stains

Tooth stains can be broadly categorized into two types: extrinsic and intrinsic stains.

Extrinsic Stains

Causes:

• Food and Beverages: Coffee, tea, red wine, soda, and certain fruits can leave stains on the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth.
• Tobacco Use: Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause stubborn yellow or brown stains on the tooth surface.
• Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to plaque buildup, which can result in surface stains.

Characteristics:

• Typically yellow or brown in color.
• Affect the surface of the teeth.
• Generally easier to remove with professional cleaning and whitening treatments.

Intrinsic Stains

Causes:

• Medication: Certain medications, such as tetracycline antibiotics, can cause deep stains if taken during tooth development.
• Trauma: An injury to a tooth can cause discoloration as the tooth reacts to the damage.
• Fluorosis: Excessive fluoride exposure during childhood can lead to white spots or streaks on the teeth.
• Aging: As you age, the enamel thins, revealing the yellowish dentin beneath.

Characteristics:

• Can be gray, brown, or white.
• Located within the tooth structure, not just on the surface.
• More challenging to treat and may require more intensive whitening methods.

What to Expect from Teeth Whitening Treatments

Understanding what to expect from your teeth whitening treatment can help set realistic expectations and ensure you’re satisfied with the results. At Ever Bright Teeth Whitening, we use professional-grade whitening systems to provide you with the best possible outcome.

Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, we’ll assess the type and extent of your tooth stains. This helps us determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific needs.

The Whitening Process

1. Preparation: Ensure you have had a dental cleaning within 3-6 months before your teeth whitening appointment. This ensures the whitening agent can penetrate the enamel effectively.
   • Be sure to have a meal or snack before your teeth whitening appointment, as you will need to avoid eating for 1 hour afterward.
   • Shade: We take the current shade and before photos.
2. Pre-Treatment: You will brush your teeth for two minutes using a pre-treatment spray. This step helps remove oils and plaque from the teeth, aiding in the whitening process.
3. Barrier: A barrier is applied to protect the gums and soft tissues before the peroxide whitening agents are applied to the teeth.
4. Application: A professional-grade whitening gel is applied to your teeth. This gel is designed to break down and remove stains, and work best on extrinsic stains.
5. Activation: A special light is used to activate the whitening gel, enhancing its effectiveness and speeding up the process.
6. End of Process: The final shade and after photos are taken.

Treatment Time: The initial treatment is a 60-minute session, must allow 2 hours to complete the treatment. For individuals with moderate to heavy stains, a follow-up session is usually recommended a few weeks after the initial visit to address more stubborn stains.

Immediate Results

Many clients see noticeable improvements after just one session. Extrinsic stains often respond very well to treatment, resulting in a significantly brighter smile.

Post-Treatment Care

• Sensitivity: Some clients may experience temporary tooth sensitivity following the procedure. This is normal and usually subsides within a few days. The product we use causes very little to no sensitivity, for most people.
• Maintenance: To preserve your results, we suggest maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding foods and beverages that stain teeth. Rinsing with water after meals can also help. Additionally, using a whitening toothpaste 1-2 times per week can help maintain your bright smile.
• Follow-Up Treatments: Depending on the type and severity of the stains, you may require additional treatments to achieve and maintain your desired level of whiteness.
• Whitening Maintenance Schedule: How frequently should you undergo professional teeth whitening to preserve your bright smile? It's important to note that whitening results aren't permanent, so regular appointments are necessary to sustain your desired level of whiteness. Depending on your diet, which may include staining beverages and foods like tea, coffee, and curry, touch-up treatments may be needed more often, sometimes every 3-4 months. Another option is to use our professional home kit between 6 month appointments.

Why Choose Ever Bright Teeth Whitening?

• Professional Expertise: Our team is led by a registered dental hygienist with extensive experience in cosmetic dentistry.
• High-Quality Products: We use top-of-the-line, professional-grade whitening systems that are safe and effective.
• Personalized Care: We tailor each treatment to meet your individual needs, ensuring the best possible results.
• Convenience: Our at-home whitening services offer the ultimate convenience, allowing you to achieve professional results without leaving your home.

Book Your Appointment Today!

If you’re ready to tackle those tough tooth stains and achieve a brighter, whiter smile, book an appointment with Ever Bright Teeth Whitening today.

Understanding the types of tooth stains and knowing what to expect from whitening treatments can help you achieve and maintain a radiant smile. At Ever Bright Teeth Whitening, we’re committed to helping you look and feel your best.