• Beverages such as coffee, teas and colas
• Aging
• Medication (antibiotic) staining
• Trauma
• Disease
• Genetics
• Tobacco
• Excessive fluoride
• Insufficient oral hygiene
• Nerve degeneration

During your initial visit, your dentist will examine your teeth and gums. Then, the doctor will explain the recommendations and discuss your options.

At South Star Family Dental, we offer at-home whitening.  We will take impressions of your teeth and supply you with custom trays as well as professional grade whitening solution. Simply apply a thin layer of gel to the trays and wear them as directed each day. Most patients notice a difference in 10 to 14 days, and the full impact will appear at the end of the whitening time period.

Drug store whitening kits don’t have the strength that professional grade whitening provides; therefore, often patients won’t achieve the results they desire. Additionally, these whitening kits often irritate gums and soft tissue because they aren’t customized to fit your mouth.

In some cases, especially where deep intrinsic stains exist, teeth whitening may not be the best option. We will review your case and can recommend other alternatives, like porcelain veneers or cosmetic crowns, if teeth whitening doesn’t fit your situation.

Many dentists consider teeth bleaching to be the safest cosmetic procedure available today. With careful supervision, you can lighten your teeth up to 12 shades and take years off your appearance.

ISome patients develop mild sensitivity after whitening. Time, as well as toothpaste that alleviates this sensation, will help minimize any discomfort you feel.