Stains and yellow teeth can diminish a confident smile. However, teeth whitening treatment can help you regain that confidence. Moreover, over 32% of all dental office visits in the US are related to teeth whitening solutions, making them one of the most common dental solutions sought by Americans. Many Virginia residents also seek teeth-whitening solutions.

While teeth whitening solutions are easily available, it is imperative to look for a reliable and effective dental office for the treatment. With a highly experienced and skilled dentist in Leesburg, VA, you can be assured of long-lasting teeth whitening solutions.

Signs that you may need teeth whitening

Teeth whitening is a combination of different procedures that aim to make teeth appear whiter and brighter without harming the tooth surface. Although teeth whitening is not a permanent solution, the results can last anywhere from a few months to up to three years, depending on the method employed by your dentist.

Nonetheless, smoking, drinking coffee, etc., can stain your teeth sooner than expected. The following are some common signs that you may need teeth whitening treatment.

• If you notice discoloration of your teeth, i.e., yellow teeth or other pigmentation, it may be a sign that you should consider a teeth whitening solution.
• With growing age, discoloration becomes more prevalent. Therefore, look for discoloration signs, especially if you are over 35.
• If you smoke regularly, the chances of discoloration in your teeth may be very high. Ensure you see your dentist regularly to maintain white teeth and optimal dental health.
• If you drink too much coffee, wine, or carbonated drinks, you may be at a higher risk of developing teeth discoloration. Therefore, you must visit your dentist every once in a while.
• If your family has a history of discolored teeth, then there’s a chance you’ll also develop this condition over time.

Different teeth whitening treatments 

Depending on the level of discoloration of your teeth and other dental conditions, your dentist may recommend an in-office teeth whitening treatment or at-home teeth whitening.

In-office teeth whitening

An in-office teeth whitening treatment is carried out in several short sittings, with each session lasting about 15-30 minutes. The dentist will use a high-concentration hydrogen peroxide gel applied to your teeth using a syringe. Some dentists also use high-intensity lights like UV, halogen, or LED that sit directly outside your mouth.

At-home teeth whitening

Several different at-home teeth-whitening options can help you whiten your teeth in the comfort of your own home. Some of the most common at-home teeth-whitening solutions are tooth-whitening gels and strips, tooth-bleaching trays, whitening toothpaste, tooth-whitening rinses, and whitening chewing gums.

They usually contain peroxide-based bleaching products that must be applied as directed by the dentist once or twice a week.

Factors to determine the most suitable teeth whitening method 

The following are some of the factors that your dentist will consider when selecting a teeth-whitening method for you.

• If you have an underlying gum disease or cavity
• The natural color of your teeth and the extent to which you want to whiten them
• If you’ve had any previous whitening treatment and why it failed to deliver the desired results
• If the whitening treatment can lead to any side effects like damage to teeth surface or sensitivity
• Another important thing that your dentist will consider is how quickly you need the results. 

Final takeaway 

Although teeth whitening is a relatively safe procedure without any severe side effects, it is essential to understand that the process may differ for each individual. Therefore, it is imperative to choose a highly experienced and skilled dentist who can assess your symptoms thoroughly while also considering underlying conditions to provide you with the best results.