In the age of social media and selfie culture, a brilliant white smile is often seen as a symbol of
beauty, health, and confidence. As a result, teeth whitening has become one of the most
sought-after dental cosmetic procedures. But amidst the numerous over-the-counter products
and professional services available, how does teeth whitening truly work? And how effective is
it? At Stallings Dental in St. Louis, Missouri, we are committed to shedding light on these
questions.

The Science Behind Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a process that tackles discoloration and stains on the surface of your teeth.
These discolorations may be a result of various factors like age, consumption of certain foods
and drinks (like coffee, red wine, tea), tobacco use, certain medications, and even genetics.

The main active ingredients in most teeth whitening products are hydrogen peroxide or
carbamide peroxide. These bleaching agents penetrate your tooth enamel to reach the
discolored molecules inside your teeth. They then break the bonds holding these molecules
together, which effectively disperses the discoloration and lightens the overall color of the teeth.

The Effectiveness of Teeth Whitening

The effectiveness of teeth whitening largely depends on the type of discoloration and the
method used.

Professional Whitening

Professional teeth whitening performed by a dentist is the most effective method. In-office
whitening treatments use a higher concentration of bleaching agent and often include a special
light to accelerate the process. Such treatments can often lighten teeth by several shades in just
one visit.

At-Home Whitening Kits

Over-the-counter whitening products or take-home kits provided by your dentist contain a lower
concentration of bleaching agent. These require a longer usage time and while they can still be
effective, the results are usually less dramatic and take longer to achieve compared to
professional whitening.

It’s important to note that teeth whitening is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The results can vary
greatly from person to person. Whitening works best on yellow stains, while brown or grayish
stains may be more resistant. Moreover, whitening products will not affect the color of dental
restorations like fillings, veneers, or crowns.

The Safety of Teeth Whitening

When performed correctly, teeth whitening is generally safe. However, it’s not uncommon to
experience temporary tooth sensitivity or gum irritation. Always follow the product instructions or
your dentist’s advice to minimize these side effects.

Choosing the Right Teeth Whitening Option for You

When considering teeth whitening, it’s always best to consult with a dental professional. At
Stallings Dental, we can assess the cause and extent of your tooth discoloration, discuss your
desired results, and recommend the best teeth whitening options for you.

While teeth whitening can enhance your smile, it’s not a permanent solution and requires
maintenance for lasting results. Good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, along with
avoiding staining foods and beverages, can help maintain your whiter smile.

Remember, your smile is unique, and while a dazzling white smile is appealing, the most
important thing is that your teeth are healthy. At Stallings Dental, we are here to help you
achieve not just a whiter smile, but a healthier one as well.

Teeth whitening can be a successful step towards the confident, radiant smile you wish for.
However, it’s crucial to approach it with realistic expectations and professional guidance.
Contact us at Stallings Dental today to learn more about teeth whitening and to discuss whether
this popular cosmetic procedure could be the right option for you. Your journey to a brighter,
healthier smile starts here.