Teeth Whitening Q&A

Can teeth whitening make my teeth look less yellow?

Yes. Teeth whitening treatments use hydrogen peroxide or lasers to eliminate discoloration caused by various things. 

Most people experience some tooth discoloration by middle age due to general wear-and-tear. Daily activities, like biting and chewing, cause your enamel to erode, making the yellow dentin beneath more visible. 

Other factors that affect tooth color include:

  • Drinking coffee, soda, and black tea
  • Using tobacco
  • Taking medication with tetracycline
  • Oral trauma

No one’s teeth stay bright and shiny forever, but routine teeth whitening treatments can minimize the appearance of unsightly stains. 

Are there different types of teeth whitening?

The providers at Redmond Dentists offer several types of in-office teeth whitening, including:

Philips Zoom!

Philips Zoom! Makes your teeth up to eight shades whiter in a single 45-minute treatment. First, your dentist applies a hydrogen peroxide gel to the surfaces of your teeth. The gel sits for 20 minutes, allowing your tooth enamel to absorb it. 

Next, your dentist points an ultraviolet (UV) light at your teeth. The UV light causes a whitening reaction, oxidizing the discolored molecules inside your tooth enamel. Your dentist repeats the same steps several times until you’re satisfied with the results. 

Redmond Dentists also offers the Philips Zoom! Take-Home Whitening System. This teeth whitening treatment uses a patent-pending gel to make your smile six shades whiter in just three nights. Start treatment on Friday and have a brilliant, bright smile come Monday.

LaserSmile

LaserSmile is similar to Philips Zoom!. During treatment, your dentist applies a whitening gel to the surfaces of your teeth. After the gel sits for about half an hour, your dentist points a handheld laser at your teeth. The laser emits targeted light energy that breaks up the discolored molecules inside your tooth enamel, making your teeth look brighter and whiter. 

How long do the results of teeth whitening last?

The results of teeth whitening usually last three or four months, but you can extend them by practicing good oral hygiene.* The providers at Redmond Dentists recommend brushing your teeth twice daily, flossing regularly, and visiting the office every six months for preventive dentistry.

To minimize stains and discoloration, drink dark beverages with a straw and quit tobacco if you use it. If you play sports, wear a mouthguard during games and practices to prevent oral trauma. 

Call Redmond Dentists to schedule a teeth whitening appointment, or book your visit online today. 

*Individual results may vary.