Teeth Whitening

The enamel on teeth differs from person to person but all enamel has one thing in common: it can change color over time.  When your teeth are not as white as you would like, a teeth whitening service at Hood View Dental is the perfect solution.  

If you are ready to explore your teeth whitening options in Gresham, OR or the surrounding communities, give our office a call.  We are happy to consult with you on your choices and to educate you with the information you need to make the best decision for you.

What aren’t my teeth white anymore?

A variety of reasons can lead to the discoloration or staining of teeth.  Likely causes include:

• Tooth injury
• Tobacco use
• Medications
• Genetics
• Age
• Illness
• Food and beverages
• Excess fluoride while teeth developed

Luckily, whatever the cause for your not-so-white teeth, our Gresham dentist can offer a variety of ways to brighten and lighten your smile.

How should I whiten my teeth?

At Hood View Dental, we discuss all teeth whitening options from over the counter products, to in-office and at-home treatments.  Your selection of treatment possibilities will depend on your timeline, whiteness goals, and availability. Here are just a few things to note about each method…

OTC Self-Application Teeth Whitening

Many companies produce teeth whitening products.  These require a bit of effort on your part and can brighten and whiten teeth by a few shades.  

Toothpaste

The easiest self-applied product for whiter teeth is toothpaste.  Use the toothpaste as you would normally, twice each day. The polishing action of the paste and bristles will slowly work to remove stains from your teeth.  Be sure to use ADA recommended products that host their Seal of Acceptance.

Toothpaste is a gentle solution and is not known to create extra sensitivity to the gums.  However, should a problem arise, discontinue use until you’ve had a word with our Gresham dentist.  

Strips

Whitening strips, when used as directed, whiten teeth using a chemical process.  The results appear a bit quicker than toothpaste but can cause sensitivity to gums if incorrectly applied.  Our Gresham dentist can suggest ideal brands that are best for your oral health.

Trays

Whitening trays from a store are generic fitting, disposable trays that hold a gel which will whiten your teeth.  A gel is applied to the interior of the tray, which is then fitted onto your upper and lower teeth. Trays are typically worn for a longer period of time than strips but produce a distinct difference in enamel color after a few applications.

In-Office Whitening Treatments

The aforementioned over-the-counter products are often a great way to enhance a professional in-office teeth whitening solution.  Professional office treatments work well for tough stains and give our patients the fastest and greatest results. Our Gresham dentist will discuss our available options including a chair procedure that can whiten teeth in one sitting to custom trays designed to fit your mouth perfectly for in-home use.    At Hood View Dental, we recommend an in-office treatment for best results when you want whiter teeth and you want the difference to last.

How should I care for my teeth?

After a teeth whitening procedure, the best way to keep your teeth looking their best and brightest is to avoid drinks and foods which are known to stain.  Coffee, tea, dark colas, wine, and acidic foods along with tobacco products are common causes of stained teeth. Drink plenty of water after consuming these foods and drinks and brush your teeth.  The longer stain-causing items stay on your teeth, the easier your teeth will become discolored. Our Gresham dentist may also recommend a gentle toothpaste if sensitivity becomes an issue around your gum line.

Call us today at (503) 328-6388 to schedule a teeth whitening appointment or consultation to go over the ways we can enhance your smile.  At Hood View Dental we love seeing the joy a whiter smile offers our patients from Gresham, Portland, Fairview, Troutdale, and Damascus.

How can I whiten my teeth?

Depending on your desired results, you may opt for a process you can do from the comfort of your own home, or one that is administered in a dental office.

Self-Applications

There are a range of at-home processes you may use to whiten your teeth. Whitening toothpastes, strips, and trays are some of the more common options.  

Toothpaste

This is the gentlest kind of whitening technique. You can use whitening toothpaste at home without the supervision of a dental professional. This technique usually doesn’t have side effects because it whitens using a polishing action instead of chemicals.

Whitening toothpaste can lighten your teeth, but it will not get your teeth as white as other products containing harsh chemicals. When used correctly, it should whiten your teeth slowly over a few days or weeks. While most whitening toothpastes can easily be bought over the counter, they have not all earned the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. In regards to oral hygiene, it is best to use products that have been reviewed by the ADA and carry their Seal of Acceptance.

Strips

Many brands offer over-the-counter whitening strips. While they can produce the results you desire, they should only be used as directed. If you have any concerns, contact a dentist to determine if you are a good candidate for at-home whitening strips.

Trays

Dental professionals can custom fit a tray for your teeth that you take home and use with whitening gel to brighten your teeth. Be sure to ask your dentist any questions you may have regarding this procedure.

Office Treatments

For tougher stains, quicker change, and a bigger difference, an in-office whitening treatment might be right for you.  Dental professionals are specially trained to administer a higher dosage of peroxide to get your teeth whiter than you can at home. A laser or light may also be used along with the peroxide. To protect your gums, the dental professionals may use a gel or thin sheet of rubber. While in-office treatments cannot be done at home, the process is very quick and the most effective.

How do I take care of my teeth after a whitening treatment?

If you are utilizing a toothpaste or strips, carefully follow the instructions included in the packaging. When being fitted for a dental tray or treated for other in-office whitening procedures, the dental professionals will instruct you on how to take care of your teeth after your treatment. In some cases, your teeth and gums may be sensitive or susceptible after a whitening session. To promote white teeth, avoid stain-causing foods, drinks, and tobacco.

Hood View Dental loves seeing the joy a whiter smile can bring to patients from Gresham, Fairview, Portland, Troutdale, Damascus, and the surrounding areas. Give us a call today at (503) 328-6388 to schedule an appointment to go over the ways we can bring that joy into your life!