It is the beginning of the new year, and you are looking to put your best face forward. One way you can do that with confidence is with a beautiful smile. Your Mansfield, TX, dentists offer several ways to achieve that, everything from porcelain veneers to crowns to dental implants. Today, though, we are going to focus on teeth whitening and how it can offer you the look you want when you smile. 

Why Aren’t My Teeth White?

Nearly 90 percent of patients want whiter teeth because over time they have become discolored. There are several reasons why this could have happened.

  • Your Diet — Certain foods and drinks, like red wine, coffee, and tea, can cause major stains on your teeth. They contain chromogens. These intense color pigments attach to your enamel, leading to a change in tooth color. 
  • Your Age — Underneath the enamel is the dentin, which is softer and yellow in color. It starts to show through as your enamel thins out because of brushing over the years.  
  • Your Habits — If you smoke, then tar and nicotine can stain your teeth over time.
  • Your Medications — Some medications, such as antihistamines, antipsychotics, and high blood pressure prescriptions, may contribute to changing the color of your teeth.

How Does It Work?

Teeth whitening is an easy treatment. Bleaches, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, are used to break up stains into tiny pieces. This causes less color concentration while making your teeth brighter. However, it may not work for every patient. For instance, if your teeth are brown or gray, the bleach possibly won’t work. Also, the treatment will not affect the color of any crowns, fillings, or veneers you have. And if your teeth have changed color because of medications or injury, whitening will not be effective.

Solutions For Your Smile

No matter if you want to make your whole smile or just a few teeth shine, we have options for you. With our take-home kits, you will experience great results, with teeth changing up to seven shades brighter. We will make molds of your teeth, create a custom whitening tray, and supply you with bleaching gel so that you can perform the treatment on your own time. Other home options to consider are stain-removal toothpaste and over-the-counter bleaching products. We can help you make the right choice for your goals. Finally, for a faster process, we offer in-office whitening with the Opalescence® Boost system. The gel formula is activated chemically, generating no heat, and it can often be completed within an hour.

Make An Appointment Today

Find out how Dr. Jones and Dr. Harris can help achieve a smile you want to show off. If you would like to schedule a consultation, then call Mansfield Dental Associates at 817-473-6227.