Are you becoming self-conscious about your yellowing teeth? Several foods and beverages common to the American standard diet have staining agents, causing the teeth to become dingy over time. Today, there are plenty of teeth whitening options on the market that can deliver a dramatically brighter smile. At Astoria Dental Group in Queens, NY, our doctors offer several solutions to add some sparkle to your smile, including take-home BriteSmile® Teeth Whitening pens, which can be used for touchups whenever they are needed.
In-Office BriteSmile Whitening vs BriteSmile To Go Whitening Pens
Our in-office BriteSmile teeth whitening system is a quick way to achieve a dramatically brighter smile. In fact, this option can lighten your teeth up to 14 shades in one simple office visit. Performed by a dental professional, this option involves applying a hydrogen peroxide gel to the teeth, then activating the molecules with a blue spectrum light. Typically, this process is completed in three 15-minute sessions. The result is a brilliant smile that everyone is sure to notice.
But how do you maintain your progress? Staining agents in the standard American diet can eventually dull your teeth once again. That is where BriteSmile To Go whitening pens come in. This portable, easy-to-use product is designed to be applied to the teeth twice a day for approximately 30 days. To use, simply click the pen to dispense the gel, then apply it to your teeth. The gel dries incredibly quickly, allowing you to go on about your day without worrying about wearing trays or dealing with messy applicators. The results achieved through BriteSmile To Go are comparable to those attained with whitening strips or at-home bleaching trays, making this an optimal product for touchups on the go.
Is Teeth Whitening Right for Me?
If you are considering teeth whitening, it is important to evaluate a couple different things. First, what type of tooth discoloration do you have? Extrinsic stains are caused by dark-colored foods and beverages, and primarily affect the outermost layers of the teeth. Fortunately, these stains are easily addressed with professional teeth whitening. However, intrinsic stains are typically the result of trauma, genetic conditions, or certain medications. This type of discoloration affects the inner layers of the teeth. Therefore, intrinsic stains do not respond well to teeth whitening. Alternative treatment methods are generally recommended in these cases.
It is also important to note that teeth whitening is a purely cosmetic treatment. Therefore, if you have other, more serious dental concerns, they should be addressed first. For example, if tooth decay is present, your doctor will discuss restorative procedures with you. If you have gum disease, we will explore periodontal treatments. As long as you have healthy teeth and gums, you are a potential candidate for teeth whitening. Many patients even choose to combine teeth whitening with other cosmetic treatments for a dramatic smile makeover.
Learn More about BriteSmile To Go
Every patient is unique. Therefore, treatment will not be the same for every individual. At Astoria Dental Group, we can help you develop a regimen that will address your specific needs. Whether you are searching for a fast in-office treatment or an at-home option for your convenience, we can help you find an option to fit your lifestyle. To learn more about BriteSmile To Go, or any other teeth whitening option, contact us online or call us at (718) 557-9305.
