Is your smile looking faded, yellow, old? Here at Summerville Dentistry in Augusta and Evans, GA, Dr. Scott Wingard and 
Dr. Caleb Morris brighten smiles with professional teeth whitening. Using powerful hydrogen peroxide gel that is carefully applied either in-office or at-home, teeth whitening services change personal appearance and self-confidence, too. Could this popular treatment work for you?
Dental stains
The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry says that five things contribute to yellow, dull teeth:
- Age: As the years go by, tooth enamel thins, and yellow dentin becomes exposed
- Tobacco: Both cigarettes and chewing tobacco darken porous tooth enamel, particularly on the front teeth
- Prescription drugs: Some prescription drugs such as anti-hypertensives and anti-histamines can change tooth color.
- Oral Injury Repair and Root Canal Therapy: Undergoing these procedures can leave your teeth a bit stained
- Foods and Drinks: Consuming food and drink that is very pigmented or has a high acidic content can stain enamel
Additionally, poor brushing/flossing habits and neglecting to get routine cleanings at Summerville Dentistry can also contribute to yellowed teeth.
Mild stains may respond to over-the-counter whitening strips, toothpastes, and mouth rinses. However, these carry risks of dental and gingival (gum) sensitivity and general ineffectiveness.
How professional teeth whitening works
Professional teeth whitening in our Augusta or Evans office includes a complete oral examination to be sure that your mouth is healthy enough for the treatment. Gum disease and active decay will disqualify people until they receive treatment. Patients with highly sensitive teeth or exposed roots should also not undergo whitening treatments.
If you choose in-office whitening, your dentist will install a rubber dam to protect your lips before applying the hydrogen peroxide gel to all exposed tooth surfaces. As the gel penetrates, it lifts out the staining organic matter, and your smile will look significantly brighter in just about one hour.
If you choose at-home whitening, you'll apply the gel (in less concentrated form) using custom-made trays which keep the gel just where it's needed—not on your tongue, gums, or lips. You'll wear the trays as your dentist directs, and in a week or so, you'll have a wonderfully bright smile!
To keep it white...
Limit your coffee and tea intake, or drink with a straw. Don't use tobacco of any kind. Brush and floss diligently, and see your friends at Summerville Dentistry semi-annually for a cleaning, exam, and whitening touch-up (as needed).
Call us to arrange your cosmetic dentistry consultation, and learn more about whitening. For Evans, phone (706) 250-2998, and for Augusta, call (706) 738-4723. We know that you'll love your new smile!