Choosing tooth whitening for your smile

Teeth bleaching or whitening lightens the color of teeth whether darkened from age, coffee, tea or tobacco. Its brightening effects can last up to five years after the treatment depending on your personal habits, such as smoking or drinking coffee or tea.

Bleaching has a higher than 90% success rate at Southpoint Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry. Bleaching is tough on stains but gentle on your teeth!  Results vary depending on several factors such as teeth stained from smoking; from taking certain medications such as tetracycline during tooth development; or from fluorosis, a condition occurring in the presence of too much fluoride.

Bleaching will not lighten fillings or artificial materials used in dental repair as for crowns, porcelain veneers, etc. Dr. Martinez may discourage treatment if you have sensitive teeth, periodontal disease, teeth with worn enamel or if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.