Dentist in Dana Point, CA discusses advantages of professional teeth whitening

A dingy smile be an indication of a medical condition or a sign of aging. Is that the message you want to send when you smile? Even with excellent oral hygiene, teeth can discolor. Professional whitening is the safe, effective way to restore (and improve upon) natural luster. Since 1986, Dr. Mark Cruz has been helping patients in the Dana Point, CA area love their smiles. He shares this helpful information about the advantages of teeth whitening.

Understanding teeth whitening

While the terms whitening and bleaching are often used interchangeably with regard to dental care, there is actually a distinction. Whitening refers to products and procedures that remove surface stains, usually with abrasion. For example, toothpaste marketed as whitening usually contain gritty calcium carbonate, dehydrated silica, or aluminum oxide to scrape pigments from enamel. This helps somewhat in the short-term, but it can only lighten teeth to their unstained shade. Plus, long-term use leaves scratches that ultimately trap more stains and worsen the condition.

Bleaching is the use of chemicals to gently loosen and lift pigments embedded in enamel irregularities and microscopic channels that extend into the dentin layer. Dentin is a yellowish structure that helps teeth withstand the pressure of chewing. As enamel thins over the years, dentin shows through, discoloring teeth. Professional treatment actually lightens dentin, so teeth can become whiter than the shade nature provided. Bleaching is also the only way to lighten internal discoloration caused by medications or trauma.

Why “go pro?”

With so many whitening products available at the corner drug store, why go to the dentist for treatment? If you take whitening into our own hands, you may not be aware of issues with teeth or gums that need to be addressed. An ethical dentist makes sure your mouth is healthy before whitening, to avoid aggravating an existing problem, and to ensure your comfort.

Even with the oversight and instruction of a trained dental team, teeth whitening is an economical cosmetic dentistry option. With good home care and regular cleanings, results can last quite a long time.

Dr. Cruz personalizes teeth whitening to the needs and lifestyle of the patient. If you want a dramatic change fast, for a special event, light-activated treatment can be performed in the dental office, in just two to three hours. Some individuals prefer to whiten gradually, in the privacy of home. Dr. Cruz creates application trays from impressions of your mouth. Snug fit keeps the gel in place for even whitening. If teeth are sensitive, he can add a buffering agent to the gel, and adjust your treatment schedule to keep you comfortable. Are your teeth very discolored? You may want to consider a combination approach – an in office treatment followed by periodic re-treatment at home

More than a bright smile

Obviously, teeth look better after whitening, but did you know the improvement extends to your entire face? In a child’s smile there is a good deal of contrast between the pearly teeth and coral-pink gum tissue. Yellowed or grayish teeth distort this relationship, making gums appear less healthy. That’s why white teeth take years off the appearance of your face.

The shade of your teeth can also influence your facial complexion. The effect of discolored teeth is the equivalent of using a shade of foundation or lipstick that does not complement your natural coloring.

Unexpected advantages of teeth whitening in Dana Point, CA

While whitening is intended to improve the look of your smile, you might experience some surprising additional benefits:

• Healthier lifestyle – Most people are extremely pleased with results of professional whitening and want to preserve their bright smiles as long as possible. That motivates them to voluntarily cut back on tea, coffee, and soda.
• Improved oral hygiene – For the same reason, this treatment can take the drudgery out of daily brushing and flossing. You may be eager to keep your teeth sparkling, and that inadvertently reduces risk of gum disease and tooth decay.
• Social acceptance – People are naturally drawn to vitality. A brilliant smile broadcasts health and vigor, whether you are in the board room or on the beach.
• Confidence – When you know your smile looks great, you aren’t afraid to use it. That can be the boost you need to open up to new people, ace a job interview, or sail through a big presentation.

Learn more about teeth whitening and other cosmetic treatment options with a consultation at Mark A. Cruz DDS – (949) 661-1006.