Everyone likes to see a bright, white smile, but getting one is not always straightforward. Sometimes, it can be tricky if you have underlying health issues or if you have deep stains and damage.

If you want to learn about teeth whitening in Fort Lauderdale or Lighthouse Point, FL, it’s a good idea to talk with your dentist before starting any whitening treatment. They can help you figure out the best way to brighten your teeth without damage or discomfort.

When Whitening Might Not Work

Tooth whitening works best on natural enamel when that enamel has been stained by drinks, food, or smoking. Discoloration that comes from deeper issues, like medication use, wearing down the enamel, or trauma, doesn’t typically respond to whitening products. Bridges, veneers, and other dental fillings typically won’t lift, either.

Why Aren’t My Results What I Expected?

Sometimes, tooth whitening solutions can’t fix every type of discoloration. You may need a different kind of approach if you have:

• Gray or brown stains caused by certain antibiotics
• Thin enamel that exposes the yellow dentin underneath
• Restorations such as crowns or bonding that won’t lighten

Veneers, bonding, or other cosmetic options could work in these cases to get the white teeth you want.

Alternatives to Traditional Tooth Whitening

If whitening isn’t right for you because of pre-existing issues, there are still ways to improve your smile. Professional cleanings, cosmetic bonding over the teeth, or laser dentistry treatments can reduce stains and help even out the color of your teeth, too. Your dentist can help you choose the option that will work best.

Contact Florida Smiles Dental for Tooth Whitening in Fort Lauderdale and Lighthouse Point, FL

If you want to figure out if tooth whitening is right for you, schedule a visit with us at Florida Smiles Dental today. Call 1-954-523-6525 in Fort Lauderdale or 1-954-943-2466 in Lighthouse Point to talk to our team about whitening options.

Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular ways to rejuvenate overall appearance by making teeth look healthier. White, shiny teeth are an indicator of overall vitality, appealing to one of humans’ most primitive instincts. But this kind of cosmetic dentistry can be overdone.

How Often Can I Get Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening should always be done by your dentist in Lighthouse Point, FL, in order to ensure that you get quality results that won’t damage your teeth. The chemical agents used with professional teeth whitening are different than those in over-the-counter whitening kits. But even with professional teeth whitening, you should only have it done once every six months at a maximum. If you think you need it more often than that, you may have underlying reasons that could be making your teeth yellow faster than normal.

Maintaining Results at Home

To make your teeth whitening in Lighthouse Point, FL last as long as possible, make sure you limit your consumption of foods and drinks known to stain teeth, like curries, blueberries, red wine, tea and coffee. If you use tobacco products, you should know that nicotine stains teeth just as it stains fingertips. Make sure you follow standard oral hygiene habits, like brushing after each meal, flossing and rinsing with a fluoride toothpaste. All of these will not only keep to keep your teeth clean, but protect your tooth enamel.

Finally, if your teeth are still yellowing faster than expected, look to any medication you’re taking on a regular basis. There are lots of prescription medications that list yellowing of the teeth as a side effect. If this is your experience, consult with your prescribing physician about possible alternatives.

For all your teeth whitening needs, rely on Florida Smiles Dental. With offices in Fort Lauderdale and Lighthouse Point, FL, we’re here to help make your smile look its best!