A popular cosmetic procedure, teeth whitening can go a long way in helping people get whiter and better smiles. It makes the teeth look healthier and pristine and even boosts people's confidence, making them smile and laugh more and enjoy the big and little things in life. But as with all things, you need to know about all the aspects of teeth whitening and be aware of the risks before getting your teeth whitened as teeth whitening involves the use of strong chemicals.

Some dangers of teeth whitening include -

The chemical which is majorly used for tooth whitening is hydrogen peroxide. Other peroxides such as carbamide peroxides may also be used. Peroxides, in general are strong chemicals and if used without care and in improper quantities may lead to oral ailments. These oral ailments include burns, sores and even ulcers in the soft tissues of the mouth. Generally the most common side effect of teeth whitening, the amount of discomfort and pain is dependent on your tissues’ sensitivity as well as the concentration and potency of the chemicals used. Over-the-counter teeth whitening products can also lead to major damage if used incorrectly, as is often the case. While the sores do heal over a period of few days, some may take even weeks to recover. The best course of action to avoid these sores and burns is to make sure the products being used are FDA or ADA certified.

Tooth sensitivity is also a big issue which occurs due to teeth whitening. The tooth becomes sensitive to temperature changes due to the tooth enamel getting worn out due to the chemical used for teeth whitening. Although this sensitivity goes away within a week, some people may suffer due to increased sensitivity to external stimuli. The discomfort associated with sensitivity can be removed by using painkillers or specialized toothpaste or dental creams made to relieve sensitivity and lessen irritation. You may also want to hold off from eating too hot or too cold food items during this period.

Home remedies, while sounding tame, also has a plethora of side effects. It is said that the majority of complications arising from teeth whitening is due to the improper use of home remedies without proper supervision or guidelines. Some home remedies for teeth whitening are quite abrasive, for example, baking soda, and can cause a host of oral and dental issues. Some fruit acids used for teeth whitening can also increase the risk of teeth having cavities.

Overall, it can be said that teeth whitening is a safe process when performed by skilled personnel, or in this case, dentists, as they know the limits as well as can help you even better in getting whiter teeth. The dentists are Belvedere Family Dentistry are well accustomed to teeth whitening procedures and have helped a large number of their patients in the procedure as well as other dental procedures.

Whitening your teeth to achieve a brighter smile is a procedure that many people consider. To be sure, getting a whiter smile is one benefit from dental whitening. However, the benefits don’t stop there. Dental whitening can directly impact your social and professional life as well as your own sense of well-being. We can help you with both the examination to determine what can be done to brighten your smile, and we can also perform the procedure here at Belvedere Family Dentistry. So, here are a few of the advantages of having your teeth professionally whitened.

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Dietary Modifications

There are several tips that people can use to help themselves maintain good oral habits in between trips to the local dentists office. While it is a good idea to see a local dentist office on a regular basis, choosing to consume foods which will not stain teeth is always advisable. Dietary habits which include a high concentration of caffeine such as coffee or fresh fruits such as blueberries can have an adverse affect on the overall appearance of a person’s teeth. These foods in moderation is usually advisable for people who are concerned about their cosmetic appearance.

Consistency With Oral Hygiene Practices

Another of the teeth whitening tips provided by nearly any Charlotte cosmetic dentist is to remain committed to oral hygiene. This is probably one of the more simple teeth whitening tips, however brushing and flossing on a daily basis will help to reduce the damage associated with consuming foods which can damage theeth. Nearly any Charlotte cosmetic dentist will agree that consistency is one of the most important things when it comes to utilizing teeth whitening stips to maintain a bright smile all year long.

Using Mouthwash

Consistent use of mouthwash can help to kill harmful bacteria before it does damage. While this may be inconvenient at times, killing bacteria is one of the most simple ways to avoid damage to the mouth and teeth. Carrying around a small container of mouthwash can be beneficial for individuals who do not want to deal with gum disease and other uncomfortable side effects of bacterial infections.

Reduce Sugar Intake

Choosing to consume a lot of sugar will have adverse consequences for the majority of individuals who are trying to maintain healthy teeth. Sugar wears down the natural structure of teeth and can cause cavities and other painful consequences. Furthermore the enamel of the person’s teeth will wear down even if they are maintaining proper oral hygiene procedures if they consume large quantities of sugar on a regular basis. A dietary modification which helps with sugar consumption will be sure to have positive results.

Using A Mouth Guard

Using a mouth protection device when engaging in athletics is advisable. It can be extremely difficult to fix the damage done from a sports related injury to a person’s mouth. The structure of teeth can be negatively affected in just a few seconds for the rest of a person’s life if they are not using proper protection. Finding the right protective equipment can be time consuming however is a worthwhile investment.

You finally did it.

You committed to teeth whitening so you could show the world the beautiful smile you’ve always wanted. Now when you smile at people you meet, they smile back in a big way. Yes, you’ve had a lot of general dentistry help (and a bit of cosmetic dentistry, too) from a Uptown Charlotte dentist you really trust. You finally took it all up one more notch, though, and did the teeth whitening procedure you always dreamed of doing. Now the challenge is, how do you keep that gorgeous smile looking white and bright and dazzling? Here are a few easy tips for maintaining your White Smile.

1. Stay Natural and Healthy. Eating natural vegetables like raw carrots, broccoli and celery sticks will keep your teeth clean and stain-free. Think of eating raw vegetables as a natural teeth whitening treatment every time you chew.

2. Stay Hydrated. A cool glass of water not only hydrates your body, but it helps to clear bacteria from your mouth before it can become plaque. Stay hydrated and stay white at the same time.

3. Add a Little Baking Soda. Just once a week, put a little baking soda on your toothbrush to give yourself a quick cleaning. It’s natural and inexpensive to clean your teeth this way, and it can work wonders.

4. Sip Tea From a Straw. Tea is a delicious, healthy drink, but it can cause stains on your teeth. To avoid stains, sip through a straw to avoid contact between the tea and your teeth.

5. Avoid food and drinks that cause stains, like coffee, tea, dark juices and red wine.

You worked hard with a dedicated Uptown Charlotte dentist to get those bright teeth. Ensure that all that cosmetic dentistry and general dentistry were worth it by taking care of that bright smile.

If you are ready to commit to a beautifully white, bright smile, call our Uptown Charlotte dental office today to make an appointment. Your teeth will thank you

Teeth Whitening is Proven to Be Safe and Effective

If you’ve noticed that your teeth aren’t as white as they once were, you’re not alone. Many people experience a gradual darkening of their teeth, as several environmental factors can cause stains. The good news, though, is that there are several whitening treatments available that can get the job done effectively and, most importantly, safely. A visit to your Uptown Charlotte dentist can help you understand what your options are.

What are the causes of stained or yellow teeth?

The enamel that coats your teeth slowly wears away as you age, leaving teeth slightly grayish. In addition, the following things can stain your teeth, turning them more yellow and sometimes brown.

– Coffee
– Tea
– Soda
– Tobacco products

A build up of tartar can also cause stains, giving people another reason to brush, floss, and regularly visit their general dentist.

What can you do about it?

You can speak with your general dentist, or one that specializes in cosmetic dentistry, to figure out which approach might be most ideal.

1. Whitening toothpastes use polishing and bleaching agents that can usually get your teeth a shade lighter.

2. Whitening gels and strips are peroxide-based and require regular applications to see noticeable effects.

3. Tray systems involve putting your teeth into something similar to a mouth guard. This tray is filled with a peroxide-bleaching agent, and the tray is worn either for a few hours in one sitting or for a period of time each night or day.

4. In-office whitening is the most efficient treatment, with results appearing immediately after your first appointment. This treatment is also endorsed by the American Dental Association, whereas some of the other at-home methods may not be.

All of these methods are safe if done according to the proper directions. The products are manufactured using safe amounts of peroxide, which will only work to whiten your teen without affecting other parts of your mouth or body.

Speaking with a dentist knowledgeable about cosmetic dentistry can give you a better idea of how you can go about getting the maximum benefit out of your treatment.

Call our dental practice to learn more about your options. If you’re looking for a Uptown Charlotte dentist, we’d be happy to consult with you, and we can suggest treatments that we feel would work best.

Summer is the peak season for weddings to happen. Whether you are getting married yourself or watching someone else do it, you need to look good. Your three main goals are to lose weight, buy a nice outfit and improve your smile for the pictures. When it is time to focus on your hygiene, focus on several ways to create a smile that is ready for the camera.

Teeth Whitening

Everyone has heard of teeth whitening, but few people know how the process works. You can buy over-the-counter products that allege to whiten your teeth and clean your gums. However, the more effective option is to work closely with a general dentist.

Teeth whitening is mainly accomplished with the use of several chemicals, including peroxide. The amount of chemicals found in store-bought products are significantly less than the amount found in dentist-provided supplies. A dentist has access to the best chemicals and treatment options for your whitening.

Veneers

Veneers cover the gaps and cracks that make your smile imperfect. Celebrities are known to get veneers along with people involved in serious accidents and those with poor health. The devices are made out of porcelain and bonded onto the teeth for a permanent result.

A general dentist should be able to install veneers within the office. The process takes 30 minutes to an hour without anesthesia. Earlier, a dental technician has to create the veneers in a lab. After the procedure, you have to follow up with one or more appointments. Then, you can maintain the veneers on your own and make sure they last for many years.

Cleanings

No one can visit the dentist without getting the teeth cleaned. Teeth cleanings are the main reason why people visit Uptown Charlotte dentists.

It may not seem important, but teeth cleaning is a very important way to improve your appearance. Cleaning teeth is the first step toward restoring your health and improving your smile.

During the summer, you want to dress less, smile more and still look good. When you are not planning for your vacation, you are getting wedding invitations left and right. Summer is also the time when you check up on your health. It is important to visit a dentist and get a professional evaluation of your teeth and gums. Uptown Charlotte dentists are there to help you schedule an appointment and improve your smile in time for any summer event.

Your teeth can stay visibly white for up to six months after a teeth whitening procedure, but only if you’re taking the very best care of your teeth after the procedure. How can you ensure that you maintain those white teeth that are smiling brightly back at you in the mirror for the longest period of time?

 

Eat Healthier

The foods that you eat do affect the whiteness of your teeth! Avoid sugary sweets, including drinks, which can cause discoloration as well as cavities. Coffee, soda, and tea also are known to stain the teeth. Water is always the best drink to reach for, and fruit to calm the sweet tooth. If you simply must drink coffee, tea, soda, etc. make sure that you brush your teeth afterward, if possible.

 

Watch Your Habits

Not only can the foods that you eat cause tooth discoloration, so can your habits! Smoking is one of the habits that causes tooth discoloration, not to mention horrible smoker’s breath!

 

Brush Your Teeth

Twice per day, two minutes each time. Brushing your teeth properly is the absolute best way to ensure that you get the most out of your whitening procedure and visit from the Charlotte dentist. Both the front and back of the teeth should be brushed for two to three minutes each brushing session. Don’t forget to brush to tongue, too! Be sure to floss to remove particles stuck between the teeth.

 

Choose Your Oral Health Products

The toothpaste and toothbrush that you’re using to care for your teeth is important. It is imperative that you own both quality toothpaste and toothbrush to thoroughly remove plaque from the teeth and for cavity prevention. It is worth paying a little more to obtain quality products and keep the white teeth that you want.

 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Cosmetic dentistry is to thank for the awesome smile looking back at you, impressing everyone who sees that gorgeous smile. Make sure that you use cosmetic dentistry services for teeth whitening twice per year for a professional tooth whitening service. While the at-home kits provide some results, nothing can replace the outstanding results offered from the Charlotte dentist!

Yellowed teeth can be very embarrassing. You may feel like you do not want to smile because someone may see your yellow teeth. You may notice when you do smile that others grimace slightly when they see your teeth. It can have an impact on your self-esteem and your life in general. So you decide to commit to teeth whitening solutions, but you wonder which option is best for you. While there are many options available, there is really only one option that is truly effective.

A Professional Teeth Whitening Is Your Best Option

The best whitening option is to have your teeth whitened professionally. At home treatments can brighten your smile somewhat, but the bleaching agent used by a cosmetic dentist is much stronger than the agents used in commercial products. The dentist protects the rest of your mouth so that the bleaching agent does not bleach and damage the rest of your mouth. A Charlotte cosmetic dentist is also much more capable of whitening your teeth to exactly the brightness that you are aiming for.

At Home Teeth Whitening Has Some Impact

At home teeth whitening solutions are definitely more convenient, since you simply will need to pick the product up at one of several stores. You can have the treatment performed at your convenience. However, the product may be more expensive overall because the volume of treatments necessary to achieve the same results will add up to the cost of a single professional treatment.

Whitening toothpaste can remove surface stains because it contains mild abrasives. This may be enough to have a barely noticeable impact on the brightness of your teeth. However, using a whitening toothpaste is better than using a non-whitening toothpaste if your primary goal is to brighten your smile.

The best at home whitening treatments are strips and gels. These are applied to the teeth and remain in contact for a designated period, lifting stains and bleaching the teeth. The worst whitening treatments are whitening rinses, which do not remain in contact with your teeth long enough to whiten effectively.

For so many, a cup of coffee is a non-negotiable requirement. But unfortunately, coffee is one of the worst things to consume if you want white teeth and is a common cosmetic dentistry issue. The coffee splashing regularly on your teeth will yellow them. Luckily, treatments can undo the effects of all those years of coffee and bring back that smile.

Why Your Teeth Stain

While enamel it is not a smooth surface. There are grooves that provide places where staining agents can accumulate, allowing for your teeth to become more stained.

Correcting Your Smile

The best way to correct your stained smile is to have it corrected by a Uptown Charlotte dentist. While there are at-home treatments that can brighten your smile, you won’t be able to get your teeth to a shade that looks natural. Your teeth will still look discolored if you have your teeth whitened by whitening strips or whitening toothpaste.

Your general dentist will need to remove your plaque in order to eliminate the stains on your teeth. A lot of what is stained on your teeth is not the enamel itself, but the plaque that forms on your teeth. The treatment will be effective, but your white teeth will only last if you take good care of them and avoid drinking too much coffee. Therefore, if you want your teeth to remain white, while also consuming coffee, you will need to periodically have your teeth whitening treatment general dentist again.

Preventing Stains From Returning

Of course, the best way to avoid having your teeth stained by coffee to complement your cosmetic dentistry treatments is to not drink coffee. If you can gradually wean yourself off coffee, your teeth will be much whiter after you have had a teeth whitening treatment from a Uptown Charlotte dentist.

Drinking coffee less often and brushing your teeth after having coffee will also help prevent stains. The best way to drink coffee is during a single, specific break rather than sipping coffee all day. Drinking coffee all at once will also give you a better boost of energy than the slow ingestion of coffee.

If you are unhappy with your coffee-stained teeth, contact our dentist office to schedule an appointment.

Brushing and flossing are effective ways to keep your teeth healthy; however, you may feel that your smile is lacking some of its old sparkle or that your teeth have become slightly yellow. Teeth whitening is an effective option for brightening your teeth and improving your smile. Cosmetic dentists typically provide whitening along with braces and preventative dentistry.

Teeth Whitening Methods

• Toothpastes Formulated for Whitening
All toothpastes can help to remove surface stains since they contain mild abrasives. These abrasives scrub the tooth enamel thus rubbing away the substances that cause the stains. Whitening toothpastes contain special chemicals and polishing agents that increase their ability to remove stains. However, whitening toothpastes can only work on the surface of teeth. The result is that they cannot change the color of teeth, unlike bleaches.

• Bleaching
This involves changing the natural color of teeth. Cosmetic dentists can use bleaches to make teeth as much as seven shades brighter. Your dentist may use in-office or at-home whitening methods. The active ingredient in the bleaches can be either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These bleaches can remove both surface stains and those that are deep in the enamel.

With in-office bleaching (sometimes referred to as “chair-side bleaching”), a protective gel or special shield may be applied to protect your gums from the bleach that will be used on your teeth. Your dentist may also use a special laser that makes the bleaching agent more effective.

At-home bleaching will be limited to the use of the bleaching agents. The bleaching agents may come in gel form and used in trays that fit over your teeth, or on a strip that adheres to your tooth enamel. The bleaches used for at-home whitening are less concentrated than those that a dentist would use in their office.

• Non-Bleaching Dental Procedures
Cleanings are an important part of preventative dentistry and can improve the appearance of your teeth as well. A dentist or dental hygienist may use abrasion along with polishing as a part of the cleaning procedure. This can remove most of the external stains left by smoking and food.

Not everyone will respond to whitening in the same way. In some cases, the only way that a patient will see significant improvement in the color of their teeth is with the use of veneers or bonding. For more information on teeth whitening procedures and to find out which is right for you, call our office to schedule an appointment.

Uptown Charlotte Dentistry & Orthodontics

Specializing in Invisalign, Composite Bonding, Veneers and Crowns.

We do our best to make it easy for you to get the beautiful smile you deserve! Our office accepts nearly all major insurance plans. Even though dental insurance is a private arrangement between you and your company, we will file your claim, handle all the paperwork, and help you get maximum insurance benefits.

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