If you want to learn more about tooth discoloration and how to get a brighter smile, contact Dr. Matthew L. Bridges at Chisholm Trail Smile Center. From teeth whitening to veneers, our Duncan, OK, cosmetic dentist has options for you! Call (580) 255-4880 to request a consultation now.

The Aging Process: A Natural Cause of Yellowing

One of the main reasons your teeth might be looking a little more yellow these days is simply due to aging. As we grow older, the enamel on our teeth – the protective, white outer layer – begins to wear down. Thinning enamel allows the yellowish dentin beneath it to show through. 

So, if you’re noticing a yellow tint in your smile, age might be a contributing factor.

Lifestyle Habits: What Are You Eating and Drinking?

If you’re a coffee lover or a tea enthusiast, you might find yourself asking, “Why are my teeth unnaturally yellow?” over your morning cup. These beverages, along with red wine, cola, and even certain fruits, contain pigment-producing substances that can stick to enamel and cause staining. 

Another huge contributor of tooth discoloration is tobacco. Whether you smoke it or chew it, tobacco is notorious for staining teeth, giving them a yellow or even brownish hue.

Poor Oral Hygiene: The Build-Up of Plaque and Tartar

If you’re not brushing and flossing on a regular schedule, then plaque and tartar can build up, making your teeth appear dull and yellow. 

Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria, and if it’s not removed, it can harden into tartar. Unfortunately, tartar is much tougher to eliminate and can make your smile look less than brilliant.

Medication Side Effects: The Hidden Yellowing Factor

Now, if you’re nodding along and thinking, “Okay, I get it. But why are my teeth unnaturally yellow, even though I brush twice a day?” It could be due to certain medications. 

Some antibiotics, antihistamines, and high blood pressure medications are known to cause teeth discoloration as a side effect. Even some types of mouthwash with chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride can lead to yellow staining if used long-term.

How to Get Your Bright Smile Back: Professional Teeth Whitening

So, what can you do about it? Well, here’s where cosmetic dentistry at Chisholm Trail Smile Center comes to the rescue! 

Professional teeth whitening treatments are a popular and effective solution for getting rid of that pesky yellow hue. Unlike over-the-counter whitening products, professional treatments with Dr. Bridges are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a brighter and more even smile. The process is simple, quick, and can dramatically improve the appearance of your teeth in just one visit.

Address Discoloration with Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “Why are my teeth unnaturally yellow?” it’s time to take action. Schedule a visit with Dr. Bridges online, or call Chisholm Trail Smile Center at (580) 255-4880 to learn more about our available treatments!

The post Why Are My Teeth Unnaturally Yellow? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

For a safe and effective teeth whitening experience, call Dr. Matthew Bridges in Duncan, OK, today at 580.255.4880.

Myth 1: Whitening Toothpaste Alone Can Transform Your Smile

Reality: While whitening toothpaste may help remove surface stains, it is not a comprehensive solution for achieving a significantly whiter smile. These toothpaste products typically contain mild abrasives and chemicals designed to polish teeth, but they may not address deeper stains or discoloration. Professional teeth whitening treatments or at-home kits with peroxide-based agents are more effective for noticeable results.

Myth 2: DIY Baking Soda and Lemon Juice Mixtures Are Safe and Effective

Reality: Baking soda and lemon juice are often touted as natural whitening agents, but using them together can be abrasive and harmful to tooth enamel. Baking soda is abrasive on its own, and the acidity of lemon juice can erode enamel, leading to increased tooth sensitivity and other dental issues. It’s crucial to opt for safe and proven methods for teeth whitening to avoid unintended consequences.

Myth 3: All Whitening Kits Are Created Equal

Reality: The market is flooded with various at-home teeth whitening kits, but not all of them are equally effective or safe. Some products may lack the necessary concentration of whitening agents, leading to subpar results, while others might be too harsh and cause sensitivity. It’s essential to choose reputable brands or consult with a dentist for guidance on selecting the right teeth whitening kit for individual needs.

Myth 4: Professional Teeth Whitening Treatments Harm Tooth Enamel

Reality: Professional whitening treatments, when performed by trained dental professionals, are generally safe and do not harm tooth enamel. The concentration of whitening agents used in these treatments is carefully regulated to ensure efficacy without compromising dental health. It’s crucial to follow the dentist’s instructions and avoid overusing at-home whitening products to prevent potential enamel damage.

Myth 5: Teeth Whitening Results Are Permanent

Reality: While professional whitening can produce significant and long-lasting results, it is not a permanent solution. The longevity of whitening effects varies from person to person and is influenced by factors such as diet, oral hygiene practices, and lifestyle choices. Touch-up treatments or maintaining good oral care habits can extend the brightness of the smile.

Myth 6: Whitening Causes Irreversible Sensitivity

Reality: Temporary tooth sensitivity is a common side effect of teeth whitening, but it is not typically irreversible. Sensitivity usually subsides within a few days to a week after the whitening treatment. Using desensitizing toothpaste and following post-whitening care instructions can help alleviate sensitivity and make the overall experience more comfortable.

Myth 7: Anyone Can Achieve Hollywood-White Teeth

Reality: The natural color of teeth varies among individuals, and achieving Hollywood-white teeth may not be realistic or suitable for everyone. Factors such as genetics, age, and the original color of teeth play a role in the outcome of whitening treatments. Setting realistic expectations and discussing goals with a dentist can help individuals achieve a brighter, but still natural-looking, smile.

Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

By debunking these common myths, you can navigate the plethora of information available and choose safe, effective methods for achieving a brighter, healthier smile. Consulting with our trusted and compassionate dentist before starting any teeth whitening regimen ensures personalized guidance and optimal results while preserving overall dental well-being. Call us today to schedule your initial consultation!

The post Debunking Teeth Whitening Myths: Separating Fact from Fiction appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Dr. Matthew Bridges and the team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center are not only committed to giving you a bright and healthy smile. At our Duncan, OK, practice, we also believe in the importance of patient education. That’s why we are always ready to answer your questions and to make sure you feel completely comfortable with your care. At your consultation, we can explain the different types of teeth whitening offered and help you choose the right one for your goals. 

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center today to schedule an appointment. 

How long does teeth whitening last?

Though teeth whitening results can be dramatic, they are not permanent. You will enjoy longer-lasting results if you select professional whitening, rather than toothpastes, strips, or other over-the-counter methods. With professional treatment, results typically last between six months and three years, depending on your oral health and lifestyle. 

How can I prolong my whitening results? 

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to fight tooth decay, as well as to prolong whitening results. Diet is also important. Coffee, red wine, and tea are all notorious culprits behind dental discoloration. Some dark-colored foods, like tomato sauce and berries, can also contribute to stains. If and when you choose to enjoy these things, be sure to drink water at the same time, as this will help to wash away food particles. 

Of course, smoking is detrimental to every aspect of your health, and it is also an inevitable cause of tooth discoloration.

How often can I receive teeth whitening?

You can receive whitening as often as once a year, though in most cases, you will not need such frequent treatment. At the same time, biannual dental cleanings will not exactly whiten your teeth, but they will help to remove plaque and tartar that cause dental stains. 

Does whitening have any side effects?

The most common side effect of teeth whitening is dental sensitivity. Sensitivity is more likely to occur following in-office treatment using a 40% solution of carbamide peroxide than after at-home treatment using a 10% solution. 

Unless you already suffer from dental sensitivity, however, you should not let this dissuade you from in-office treatment. In most cases, sensitivity is mild and goes away after a few days. When choosing your whitening method, there are a number of other factors to consider, including budget, time frame, and whitening goals.  

Contact Us to Learn More about Our Cosmetic Treatments 

Still have questions about whitening or other cosmetic dentistry options? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or give us a call at 580-255-4880.

The post “How long does teeth whitening last?” and Other FAQs appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, Dr. Matthew Bridges proudly offers both in-office Zoom!^® and take-home Opalescence^® teeth whitening. Take-home treatment provides the convenience of DIY methods, while in-office whitening offers immediate results. Regardless of the whitening method you choose, you should schedule a consultation with your dentist to determine whether treatment is right for you.

Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to schedule your appointment. 

Whitening Toothpastes

Many toothpastes are marketed as being able to whiten teeth. These toothpastes often contain carbamide peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, or similar materials, which can break down stains. These products really can reduce discoloration. However, the results will not be particularly noticeable. If you decide to purchase a whitening toothpaste, make sure you buy one with the ADA Seal of Acceptance. 

Whitening Strips 

Whitening strips are another product commonly found in drug stores. When you wear the strips for about 30 minutes a day, these products claim to dramatically reduce dental stains. Again, they do really whiten teeth. But the results probably won’t be as noticeable as you would like. Most whitening strips only lighten teeth by a shade or two.

Baking Soda and Peroxide

Some people claim that you can achieve whiter teeth by brushing with baking powder and peroxide. Alternatively, you could place these products in a mouthguard. While this method could be effective, it could also be dangerous. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate your gums, and it is easy to create an over-concentrated solution. 

Oil Pulling 

Oil pulling is a traditional Indian remedy that is having a popular moment in Western holistic medicine. The method involves swishing a tablespoon of oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes. Typically, coconut oil is used. Proponents claim that it can whiten teeth and combat tooth decay and gum disease. However, while there have been some studies confirming the oral health benefits of oil pulling, currently no studies indicate that it is an effective method of teeth whitening. 

Take-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment 

For the most effective DIY method, consider take-home Opalescence. You will receive custom whitening trays, which you will fill with whitening gel. There are several flavors and concentrations to choose from. You can also decide how long you will wear the trays, from 15 minutes a day to overnight. Opalescence offers the flexibility of other do-it-yourself methods. At the same time, you will have the supervision of your dentist to ensure safe and truly noticeable results. 

Contact Us to Learn More about Teeth Whitening 

To schedule a cosmetic consultation, contact our office today.

Send us a message online or call 580-255-4880.

The post Does DIY teeth whitening really work? appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Are you considering cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK? Let the Chisholm Trail Smile Center team help you choose treatments that work best for you. Request a consultation with Dr. Matthew L. Bridges today by calling (580) 255-4880 now!

In today’s post, our team explores seven reasons why you should consider exploring cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK. From transforming your oral health to elevating your overall well-being, these treatments offer more than you think! 

Enhanced Aesthetics

Cosmetic procedures can work wonders when dealing with stained, misaligned, or chipped teeth. These treatments help enhance the color, shape, and overall appearance of your teeth, providing you with a dazzling smile that exudes vitality and youthfulness.

Boosted Confidence

When you feel good about your teeth, you’re more likely to smile freely and engage in social situations confidently. 

So, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, isn’t just about improving your appearance – it’s about empowering you to face the world with a renewed sense of self-assurance!

Improved Oral Health

Contrary to popular belief, cosmetic dental treatments are not solely about aesthetics. These treatments also contribute to better oral and overall health. 

Procedures like dental crowns and veneers enhance the appearance of teeth while also strengthening and protecting them. By addressing issues like misalignment and gaps, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, can help prevent potential oral health problems down the road.

Long-lasting Results

One of the significant advantages of aesthetic dentistry is the longevity of the results. Unlike some temporary solutions (such as over-the-counter whitening products), professional cosmetic procedures offer lasting transformations. 

Functional Improvements

Cosmetic dental treatments can improve the functionality of teeth. Correcting issues like misalignment or malocclusions not only enhances the aesthetics of your smile but can also lead to better chewing and speech. 

This dual benefit ensures that your investment in aesthetic dentistry contributes to both your oral health and overall well-being.

Personalized Treatment Plans

Aesthetic dentistry is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dentists work closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans tailored to their unique needs and goals. 

Whether you’re looking to address minor imperfections or undergo a comprehensive smile makeover, cosmetic dentistry in Duncan, OK, offers a range of options to suit your preferences and budget.

Technological Advancements

Advancements in dental technology have revolutionized cosmetic dentistry, making procedures more precise, efficient, and comfortable. From 3D imaging to minimally invasive techniques, patients can benefit from the latest innovations for optimal results.

Shine Brightly with Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK

Aesthetic dentistry offers numerous benefits outside of cosmetic concerns. It may be for this reason that experts expect the cosmetic dentistry market to experience a compounded annual growth rate of roughly 14% from 2023 to 2030. Are you ready to experience the benefits of cosmetic dental treatments for yourself? Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center online or at (580) 255-4880 to reserve your consultation today! 

The post 7 Reasons to Explore Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK, Today appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Brighter tooth enamel, straighter teeth, more esthetically shaped teeth, and no metal dental work can dramatically improve the appearance of smile. We achieve these goals with cosmetic dentistry, which Dr. Matthew Bridges offers at Chisholm Trail Smile Center in Duncan, OK.

What is cosmetic dentistry? 

Any dental procedure that enhances the appearance of a smile is considered cosmetic dentistry. Some, like white fillings and crowns, are cosmetic, as well as restorative. In general, cosmetic dentistry includes:

• Teeth Whitening
• White Fillings
• White Crowns
• Porcelain Veneers
• Cosmetic Bonding
• Cosmetic Contouring

You could look healthier, younger, and more attractive after cosmetic dentistry by Dr. Matthew Bridges. At his Duncan, OK, dental office, Dr. Bridges offers an array of treatments and procedures to brighten, straighten, and improve the overall symmetry of a person’s smile.

In today’s blog, we’ll explain how to achieve these cosmetic goals for your smile:

• Brighter Enamel
• Better Alignment
• Balance and Symmetry

Brighter Enamel

Teeth Whitening

We offer both in-office whitening with Zoom! and take-home whitening kits. These systems yield dramatic and similar results. While Zoom! takes about an hour, optimal results are seen a few days later. Home whitening requires one to two weeks of daily use, wearing gel-lined trays as instructed.

Porcelain Veneers

Some stains, like fluorosis (white, horizontal lines) and tetracycline stains (blue-gray hue) do not respond to chemical teeth whitening. If your teeth have intrinsic stains or you ultimately want a full-smile makeover, porcelain veneers are the premium choice. Veneers cover the entire front surface of teeth that show when you smile.

Cosmetic Bonding

A quick and effective cosmetic dentistry treatment, cosmetic bonding involves composite resin, the same material we use for white fillings. When applied to teeth as a veneer (sheet), bonding accomplishes long-term teeth whitening. However, keep in mind that bonding lasts about seven years, while veneers can endure up to 20 or more years.

Better Alignment

Porcelain Veneers

Because porcelain veneers are handmade for each patient, Dr. Bridges can design veneers to make your teeth look more uniform. They can close spaces, reface twisted or small teeth, and in some cases correct the appearance of slightly overlapped teeth.

Cosmetic Bonding

If price is an issue, cosmetic bonding can achieve results similar to that of porcelain veneers, but it will only last about seven years, on average. Another consideration is that if bonding is placed on only a portion of a tooth and the natural tooth enamel stains, the bonded portion will stand out. The patient in this situation should undergo professional teeth whitening.

White Crowns

Though they look bulkier and require more tooth preparation than veneers, white ceramic crowns reshape teeth so they appear more uniform and symmetrical.

Balance and Symmetry

Porcelain Veneers

The all-in-one smile makeover, as they’re sometimes called, porcelain veneers combine many aspects of cosmetic dentistry in a single procedure. Veneers transform the appearance of front teeth, accomplishing permanent whitening, improved alignment, and excellent symmetry and balance. From the upper midline (where the two center teeth meet), veneers look symmetrical on both sides.

Cosmetic Bonding

Like veneers, bonding can balance a smile that features asymmetrical teeth. For instance, a small, twisted, or chipped tooth can be fully reshaped with cosmetic bonding.

Cosmetic Contouring

While bonding adds structure to teeth, contouring removes structure. Cosmetic contouring involves reshaping tooth enamel for a smoother, more esthetic edge. For example, a patient with sharp, pointy canines, will enjoy a softer esthetic after contouring. 

White Crowns

When veneers and bonding will not offer a durable, long-term solution to smile asymmetry and imbalance, porcelain crowns may be advised. 

Which cosmetic dentistry treatments will deliver your dream smile?

Find out at your cosmetic dentistry consultation with Dr. Bridges. Schedule your appointment in our Duncan, OK, dental practice by calling (580) 255-4880. After evaluating your teeth, gums, and oral health, Dr. Bridges will talk with you about your goals. Once he understands what you’d like cosmetic dentistry to achieve, he’ll recommend appropriate treatments and answer all of your questions.

The post 3 Secrets of Transformative Cosmetic Dentistry in Duncan, OK appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

If you are considering professional whitening, make sure you are a suitable candidate first. Learn about the qualifications here, but it’s also important to speak with a dentist to learn if you qualify for treatment. 

Dr. Matthew Bridges, our dentist in Duncan, OK, will talk to you about your smile goals, examine your smile, and determine whether professional in-office and at-home whitening treatment is the best option for you. Call our dental office today to schedule your teeth whitening consultation! 

The Ideal Teeth Whitening Candidate

Patients with yellow-stained teeth and an otherwise healthy smile are the best candidates for teeth bleaching. During a dental examination, Dr. Bridges can determine whether the stains on your teeth are intrinsic or extrinsic. 

Intrinsic vs Extrinsic Dental Stains

Intrinsic stains are inside the tooth and can occur because of medical conditions, medications, dental trauma, excessive fluoride, and genetics. In this case, Dr. Bridges may recommend veneers. Extrinsic dental stains can be treated with teeth bleaching because they only occur on the outside of the tooth due to external factors like chewing tobacco, smoking, coffee, tea, sodas, and dark-colored foods. 

Teeth Whitening Disqualifications

Cavities, gum disease, fillings, crowns, and bridges may disqualify you from treatment. Other conditions and circumstances that may bar a patient from teeth whitening treatment include: 

• Pregnancy and breast-feeding
• Being under the age of 16
• Allergic to peroxide or other teeth-bleaching agents
• Sensitive teeth

Duncan, OK, Teeth Whitening Options

At our dentist’s office in Duncan, OK, Dr. Bridges offers two types of professional teeth whitening: 

1. Zoom!® In-Office Whitening

Zoom in-office teeth whitening is a professional dental procedure that uses a powerful whitening gel and a special light to quickly and effectively whiten teeth. It is a popular option for people who want to get a brighter, more confident smile without the hassle and expense of at-home whitening kits. The procedure typically takes about an hour, and the results can last for several months with proper care.

2. Opalescence® Take-Home Whitening

Opalescence take-home whitening is a whitening treatment that you can use in the comfort of your own home. It involves wearing custom-fit trays filled with a whitening gel for a specified amount of time each day. The gel contains a powerful bleaching agent that penetrates the enamel to remove deep stains and discoloration. 

With regular use, Opalescence take-home whitening can help you achieve a brighter, whiter smile. It’s a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth and boost your confidence.

Schedule Your Appointment

Are you ready to feel more confident? Want to ensure your smile is picture-perfect for an upcoming wedding or special occasion? Call Dr. Bridges today! Our Duncan, OK dental team is ready to help you achieve a beautiful smile. Contact us at (580) 255-4880. 

The post Professional Teeth Whitening Candidate Requirements & Treatment Options appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Are you throwing your money into drugstore teeth whitening products that aren’t delivering the results you want? It might be time to consider a more effective way to get the brilliant smile that you’re looking for.

At Chisholm Trails Smile Center in Duncan, OK, our skilled and attentive team offers professional teeth-whitening treatments. When it comes to teeth whitening, we believe that our patients deserve to have options. Here, you’ll learn about the treatment options that we offer and how they benefit you.

Take-Home vs. In-Office Teeth Whitening

First, patients need to determine what works better for them:

• Teeth whitening in one, quick session
• Gradual teeth whitening over a 2-week period

If you are in a hurry to get a brighter smile, then our in-office whitening treatment is better for you. If you prefer to whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home, then our take-home whitening system is ideal for you.

Worried that one method is better than the other? Don’t be! Whether you choose to whiten your teeth at home or in our office, you’ll still get the same brilliant results.

Zoom!® In-Office Teeth Whitening

Patients who prefer to whiten their teeth in one, quick session will receive a Philips Zoom!® WhiteSpeed treatment. This in-office whitening system is the most patient-requested professional whitening treatment in the US. Here’s what you can expect from the Zoom!® whitening process:

• Dr. Matthew L. Bridges will begin the treatment by examining and preparing your mouth for the whitening process.
• Next, he will apply a layer of whitening gel to your teeth.
• Then, Dr. Bridges will position an LED lamp over your mouth. The LED lamp enhances the effects of the whitening gel. 
• The gel and LED treatment will be repeated 3 times.
• After the gel and LED treatment process, Dr. Bridges will put a protective sealant on your teeth. The sealant shields your teeth’s enamel, which helps to minimize tooth sensitivity after the whitening treatment. 
• The Zoom! in-office treatment includes a take-home whitening kit so you can touch up your smile at home.

The Zoom! WhiteSpeed teeth-whitening treatment takes less than one hour to complete. Once the treatment is finished, you’ll have a dramatically brighter smile that is up to 8 shades whiter. Talk about fast results!

Opalescence® by Ultradent

For patients who wish to gradually whiten their smile in the comfort of their home, our practice offers Opalescence® by Ultradent. The Opalescence at-home whitening kit includes a custom-made tray and peroxide gel. Here’s how the at-home teeth whitening system works:

• First, start by brushing and flossing to remove plaque from your teeth.
• Next, place a small amount of the peroxide gel into each tooth impression in your customized tray.  
• Then, gently place the tray over your teeth.
• Wear the tray for 15 minutes to 1 hour. Do not wear the tray for more than 1 hour at a time! Doing so may cause increased tooth sensitivity. 
• Finally, remove the tray, rinse it with cold water, and brush your teeth to remove any leftover gel.

The treatment requires you to repeat the process daily for 2 weeks. Although the peroxide gel has a lower concentration than the in-office gel, you’ll still get a noticeably whiter smile! 

Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

Professional teeth whitening safely and effectively brightens your smile, so you don’t have to waste money on drug store whiteners. Ready to experience the perks of professional teeth whitening? Call our caring team at (580) 255-4880 or contact us online to start your teeth-whitening treatment today.

The post The Perks of Professional Teeth Whitening appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

Depending on the type of staining you’re experiencing, there are cosmetic dentistry treatments that can help.

Extrinsic Staining

As we age and experience life, the enamel (surface of the teeth) darkens and appears less white. Diet contributes to extrinsic staining the most. Coffee, tea, dark-colored sodas, wine, and naturally and artificially dyed foods change the color of our enamel. Chewing and smoking tobacco products can also contribute to surface-level staining. Surface-level discoloration is categorized as extrinsic staining.

Even though extrinsic stains aren’t as permanent as intrinsic stains, they don’t usually respond to regular brushing or over-the-counter whitening products, such as whitening strips.

In-Office Whitening

In-office teeth whitening is the most common cosmetic dentistry treatment and can dramatically lessen surface-level staining. Professional teeth whitening treatments are fast, effective, and long-lasting.  Zoom!® in-office teeth whitening treatments can brighten teeth up to eight shades in just 45 minutes.

Here’s how our dental team whitens the teeth:

1. A dental hygienist thoroughly cleans the mouth and polishes the teeth.
2. The dentist checks the current shade of the teeth.
3. They’ll apply a layer of advanced whitening gel to the teeth.
4. A blue LED lamp is applied to the teeth to accelerate the whitening process comfortably.
5. Steps two through four are repeated three times.
6. Once you’ve reached the desired shade, the dentist applies post-treatment gel to protect the enamel and reduce sensitivity.

The dentist may prescribe custom whitening trays and a take-home whitening kit to touch up the brightness of your smile whenever you want to.

At-Home Whitening

Not all at-home whitening treatments are the same, but Opalescence® by Ultradent is a proven take-home whitening system. The dentist fabricates a customized bleaching tray and provides a patented low-concentration peroxide-based gel. Typically, patients wear their tray for 15 minutes to one hour per day for about two weeks. After several sessions of this peroxide-based gel formula, Opalescence can dramatically brighten teeth as much as in-office whitening treatments.

To preserve whitening effects, avoid stain-causing drinks, food, and habits:

• Coffee, tea, red wine, and any bright-colored drinks can discolor enamel.
• Natural and artificial food coloring can stain teeth.
• Smoking and chewing tobacco can cause yellowing and browning effects.

If you must indulge in these things, rinse or brush your teeth immediately afterward. Our dentist may also prescribe medication for home use that helps with the whitening process.

Intrinsic Staining

Intrinsic staining darkens the dentin (inner dental issue). Genetics, trauma, fluorosis, and certain medications cause intrinsic staining. Veneers and crowns can improve the appearance of deep staining that does not respond to traditional whitening treatment.

Veneers

These wafer-thin, color-matched restorations camouflage deep staining. Dentists permanently bond veneers to the front of the teeth. They are completely customizable in shape and color so that they blend seamlessly with adjacent teeth.

Crowns

If the tooth is discolored due to oral trauma, a crown may be necessary. Crowns differ from veneers because they fully encase the entire visible portion of the teeth (not just the front). Dental crowns, or caps, rebuild the dental structure to improve the appearance and protect it from infection or further damage.

It’s Time to Improve the Look of Your Smile

Professional whitening can create dramatic results quickly, safely, and effectively. Contact Chisholm Trail Smile Center to learn more about how to whiten your teeth. Call 580-244-4880 or contact us online today.

The post Extrinsic vs. Intrinsic Staining: How to Whiten Both appeared first on Chisholm Trail.

More than half of all American adults don’t like their smiles or the color of their teeth. Teeth often turn yellow due to advanced age, wear and tear, or heavy smoking. Carbonated beverages and coffee are also common culprits. 

What is the solution? What many people don’t know is that professional tooth whitening is quick and easy. Another option is dental veneers, permanent custom coverings for each tooth. If you need to know whether to get whitening or veneers, keep reading. 

Brighten Your Smile With Professional Whitening Treatments 

Teeth whitening has been around for decades, but DIY kits are relatively new. The tooth whitening industry is worth approximately $6 billion per year. Dentists recommend, however, that their patients choose in-office whitening services or take-home kits. 

• Stronger solutions

The active ingredient in teeth whitening treatments is hydrogen peroxide. Although this is available in drug stores, dental kits have a much higher concentration. 

• Quicker results than over-the-counter kits

Patients who undergo treatment at the dentist’s office will see results right away, while people who use dentist-approved take-home kits might wait 10 days to two weeks for results.

• Builds confidence 

How would you feel if your teeth were eight shades lighter? Zoom whitening treatment takes about one hour and is a great choice for patients who would like to see results right away.

If the patient already has dental implants, whitening could take the teeth to a brighter shade than the implants. Teeth whitening is a quick path to improving your smile, but veneers may be a better choice in some cases. 

Invest in Your Smile With Veneers

Veneers are thin, customized pieces of material that fit over the front of existing teeth. They may cover just a few teeth or the entire mouth. 

• Teeth stay white

Professional whitening treatments require daily maintenance and touch-up appointments. Veneers stay white because they don’t take on food stains or cigarette smoke. 

• Improve other aspects of your smile

Dental veneers also address cosmetic issues like misshapen teeth, chips, gaps, and slightly crooked teeth. For patients who want to completely revamp their smiles, dental veneers could be the answer. 

• Builds confidence

Whether patients choose teeth whitening or veneers, the outcome is the same. They feel better about themselves, which can help them perform better at work, and have more confidence in social situations. 

Before you commit to a procedure, talk to your dentist about your dental health goals. They will be able to help narrow down a treatment plan and discuss the overall financial picture. 

Whether you’re getting veneers or teeth whitening, the outcome will always be a happy, healthy smile. 

Teeth Whitening in Duncan, OK

Our friendly team at Chisholm Trail Smile Center will get your smile where it needs to go. We work with adult patients on teeth whitening, deep cleaning, and veneers. Make sure to get teeth whitening treatments before installing veneers or the shades may not match. 

We also offer a wide range of restorative and preventative procedures including deep cleaning, tooth extractions, and Invisalign braces. We will work together toward your smile goals! Patient satisfaction is our only goal, and we’re happy to serve our local community. 

Call us at (580) 255-4880 to schedule an initial consultation. We look forward to meeting with you!!

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