Think you know everything about teeth whitening? Think again.

How often do you hide your smile? How many times have you deleted or discarded a photo of yourself because the discoloration of your teeth seemed so glaring? For how long have you been putting up with the insecurity, embarrassment, or unhappiness caused by discolored teeth?

If you are like many, the answer is far too long.

The good news is that there are teeth whitening procedures available that help thousands of people each year achieve the bright, beautiful smile they’ve been dreaming of. Check out the video below to find out how this process works, and then keep reading to find out if this process might be right for you, too:

1. Discolored Teeth Affect More Than Just Your Smile. In fact, a 2007 study found that an attractive white smile has a direct effect on social and professional success. In the study, after whitening their smiles, the majority of participants were viewed to be more professional, more confident, and more outgoing. They were even more likely to be hired and offered a larger salary! It’s no secret that your appearance can have a big impact on first impressions, but it can be surprising to find just how significant that effect really is!

2. Want Whiter Teeth? You’re Not Alone. In fact, the American Association of Orthodontics found that nearly 90% of patients requested tooth whitening, and more than a third of Americans say that they are “concerned by the look of their teeth.” Discoloration can come from a variety of sources, including food and drink, tobacco use, age, trauma, and even some medications. Fortunately, there are a number of great whitening products and procedures available.

3. There Are Three Main Types of Teeth Whitening. At its most basic, teeth whitening products break down stains into smaller pieces, making the color less concentrated and your teeth brighter. Within this scope, most patients have three options:

• • Whitening Toothpastes: Although these pastes do not have bleaches in them, they have special chemical or polishing agents which can help to remove surface stains. These cannot actually change the color of the teeth, though, because they only reach surface stains, rather than deep set discoloration.
  • At-Home Bleaching: At home bleaching kits often use a lower concentration bleaching agent in a gel or whitening strip that is applied to the teeth for a short period of time. Often, it takes several applications to achieve noticeable whitening.
  • In-Office Whitening: Also called “chairside whitening”, this procedure uses either a more highly concentrated bleach and, in some cases, a special light, to achieve a major whitening in just one visit.

4. Teeth Whitening Products Work Better For Some People Than Others. Not all of the products listed above will work the same way on different teeth. For example, whitening does not work on caps, veneers, crowns, or fillings. For teeth with brown or grey staining, typical bleaching options may not be effective. Because of the variables involved, it is important to talk with your dentist before beginning any whitening regimen.

5. Your Ticket To A Whiter Smile Is Waiting. Give us a call at 215-898-PDFP(7337) or request your appointment online now to speak to us about YOUR smile.

Contact us today to give your teeth a sparkle!