Teeth Whitening in Albuquerque

How Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening contains hydrogen peroxide as an active ingredient in whitening gels that are applied to your teeth. Oxygen molecules in this gel increase porosity so they can penetrate past the upper layer of enamel and break down intrinsic tooth stains. 

Oxygen molecules are volatile and react with these compounds to break apart staining molecules. This reduces the concentration of stains in your teeth, creating a brighter appearance. At Coronado Family Dental, we offer multiple whitening treatment options for your convenience. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Family dentistry Albuquerque

Did you know…

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The lower peroxide concentration in take-home whitening reduces tooth sensitivity after the treatment.

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How It Works: The Teeth Whitening Process

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Consultation

Dr. Chiem will examine your teeth to determine how discolored they are and rule out any oral health problems with x-rays.

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Treatment Plan

Dr. Chiem will have an open and honest discussion with you about your aesthetic goals, whether you have tooth sensitivity, and if you prefer to whiten your teeth from home or at the office.

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Preparation

In preparation for at-home treatment impressions of your teeth need to be taken. For in-office treatment, you will wear a cheek protractor and a protective gel will stop the peroxide from touching your gums.

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Application

At home, you will squirt the whitening agent onto the inside of your trays and place the trays over your teeth. In the office, the dentist will apply the whitening agent for you by painting it onto your teeth and then exposing it to UV light.

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Maintenance

The results can last from 6 months to 3 years depending on how your care for your teeth. Dr. Chiem will give you tips on how to maintain your whitened smile and what to avoid.

Teeth Whitening Options

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Take-Home 

Banish discoloration and stains from the comfort of your own home! We only need you to pop in for a super short 15-minute appointment to take impressions of your teeth. These impressions will be used as a mold to create your custom whitening trays. This prevents the gel from touching your gums.

Once they’re ready, you can pick them up and begin treatment on your own terms. Take-home whitening involves using a lower concentration of peroxide which is why it takes repeated use to achieve the same results as in-office whitening. 

Simply apply the gel to your trays, wear them over your teeth for the instructed duration of time, and then remove them. It takes 1 to 2 weeks to reach your final results. Your teeth will gradually whiten more each day.

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Don’t have the time for a gradual, ongoing process? In-office whitening is done in a fast appointment in the dental chair. After protecting your mouth’s tissues, the light-activated whitening gel is applied directly to your teeth. 

Exposing the whitening agent to UV light speeds up the reaction process, resulting in instant whitening. After your appointment, which only takes about an hour, your teeth will be drastically whiter, up to 10 shades after just one appointment! We recommend this treatment for special events or photos that are coming up soon.

Have Questions About Teeth Whitening? Find Answers Here

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Will Teeth Whitening Damage My Teeth?

Tooth whitening, when done properly, will not damage your teeth. However, as with any dental procedure, there are potential risks if it is not done correctly. Overuse or misuse of teeth whitening products can cause damage to the teeth and gums.

For example, if the whitening agent is left on for too long, it can irritate the gums and cause them to become sensitive. Additionally, if the product is applied incorrectly, it can damage the enamel on your teeth, making them more vulnerable to decay and sensitivity.

How Often Do I Need to Get My Teeth Whitened to Keep Them White?

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The frequency of teeth whitening touch-ups needed to maintain white teeth varies from person to person and depends on several factors. These factors include your dental hygiene routine, dietary habits, and lifestyle choices.

If you have good dental hygiene practices such as brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist regularly, you may be able to go several years without needing a teeth whitening touch-up. However, if you consume staining beverages like coffee, tea, or wine frequently, you may need touch-ups every few months.

Can Teeth Whitening Remove All Types of Stains?

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Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can effectively remove most surface stains caused by food, drinks, tobacco, and aging. However, it may not be as effective in removing certain types of stains caused by medication, injury, or genetic factors. These types of stains are often deeper and require more extensive treatment such as veneers or dental bonding.

Ultimately, it's essential to consult with your dentist to determine the best course of action based on your individual needs. They can evaluate the type and severity of your stains and recommend the most suitable treatment options to achieve the best results.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Everyone?

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Teeth whitening is generally considered a safe and effective cosmetic dental procedure. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. People with gum disease, tooth decay, or enamel erosion may experience increased sensitivity or discomfort during teeth whitening treatments. In some cases, teeth whitening may even worsen these conditions.

It's also important to note that pregnant women and children under the age of 16 should avoid teeth whitening procedures. The effects of teeth whitening on developing teeth are not yet fully understood, and it's better to err on the side of caution.

In addition, people with allergies or sensitivities to peroxide or other teeth whitening ingredients should avoid teeth whitening treatments or discuss alternative options with their dentist. These ingredients can cause allergic reactions, irritations, or even chemical burns in some people.

Before undergoing any teeth whitening treatment, it's essential to discuss your dental health history and any concerns you may have with your dentist. They can evaluate your individual needs and determine whether teeth whitening is safe and suitable for you. In some cases, they may recommend alternative cosmetic dental procedures or delay the treatment until your dental health conditions are under control.