Over time, our teeth can turn dull, yellow, or stained, sometimes due to reasons outside of our control, like aging. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your smile, you may be tempted to purchase a toothpaste that promises to whiten your teeth.
But does this product actually work? When you practice good oral hygiene with this type of toothpaste, you can get whiter teeth. Dr. Emily Ann Reece, a dentist practicing in Cary, NC, explains how specialized toothpaste can give you a brighter smile.
What Is Whitening Toothpaste?
We brush our teeth to remove plaque build-up from our smiles, protecting teeth from dental damage like decay and gum disease. Traditional toothpaste works with the brushing action to get rid of residues as well as surface stains on your teeth.
This toothpaste contains abrasive substances that dissolve stains on a surface level, but it cannot reach deeper discoloration in your teeth. Specified whitening toothpaste has hydrogen peroxide, which acts as a bleaching agent to brighten teeth in a more targeted way than traditional toothpaste.
When considering a whitening toothpaste, you should check that the brand is certified by the American Dental Association. Use the product as directed in order to get the best enhancement effects for your smile.
What Other Ways Can I Enhance My Smile?
You can preserve your tooth color by practicing good oral hygiene. You can also protect your smile by avoiding staining agents, like tobacco and dark-colored foods and beverages.
Your dentist can also brighten your smile with in-office teeth whitening treatment. This involves whitening gel that a dental professional applies to your teeth. They activate the bleaching agents using specialized light.
This treatment offers individualized attention to your smile aesthetic goals as well as professional supervision to minimize potential side effects like gum irritation. With this kind of care, you can get better cosmetic results when compared to over-the-counter teeth whitening kits that you can purchase from your local shop.
Teeth Whitening Services Available in Cary, NC
Reedy Creek Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers teeth whitening services and other cosmetic dental treatments to patients in Cary, NC. Dr. Reece also specializes in general and restorative dentistry, including periodontal care, for patients of all ages. To schedule an appointment or consultation with our practice, contact us online or reach our office by phone at 919.646.6294.