Teeth Whitening

A Brighter Smile, Personalized for You

It is completely normal for teeth to become less bright over time. Coffee, tea, certain foods, tobacco, aging, and other factors can all contribute to staining and discoloration. If you have noticed that your smile is not as bright as it once was, professional teeth whitening may be a simple way to refresh its appearance.

At Foley Family Dentistry, we can help you determine whether whitening is appropriate for your teeth and recommend an option based on your smile, your goals, and the type of discoloration you have.

Call (251) 257-7009New Patient Info

Why Do Teeth Become Discolored?

Not all tooth discoloration is the same. Some stains develop on the surface of the teeth as a result of the foods and beverages we enjoy every day. Other changes in color can occur within the tooth and may be related to aging, medications, injury, or other factors.

Understanding why your teeth have changed color is an important first step. During your visit, we can evaluate your teeth and talk with you about the results you would like to achieve.

How Does Professional Teeth Whitening Work?

For take-home whitening, we create custom bleach splints designed to fit comfortably over your teeth. You will receive professional whitening gel along with instructions for how and when to wear your splints at home.

Your teeth will gradually become brighter as you complete your recommended whitening routine. Because your splints are made specifically for you, they can also be kept for future touch-ups when appropriate.

We will explain what to expect before you begin, including how long to wear your splints and how to manage temporary tooth sensitivity if it occurs.

What Can Teeth Whitening Improve?

Professional whitening can be particularly effective for many common types of staining and discoloration. It may help:

  • Brighten teeth that have become dull over time
  • Reduce yellow or brown staining
  • Address discoloration caused by certain foods and beverages
  • Refresh your smile before a wedding, reunion, vacation, or other special occasion
  • Give your smile an overall brighter appearance

The amount of whitening you can achieve will depend on your natural tooth color and the cause of the discoloration.

What Should You Know Before Whitening Your Teeth?

Whitening treatments work on natural tooth enamel, but they do not change the color of crowns, veneers, fillings, or other restorations. If you have visible dental work, we can take that into consideration when discussing your options so that your final smile looks as natural and balanced as possible.

Some types of discoloration also respond better to whitening than others. If whitening is unlikely to give you the result you want, we can talk with you about other possibilities rather than recommending a treatment that may not meet your expectations.

Professional Whitening vs. Store-Bought Products

With so many whitening products available, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. The advantage of talking with your dentist first is that we can examine your teeth and gums, identify the type of discoloration you have, and help you choose an appropriate approach.

Professional guidance can also be particularly helpful if you have sensitive teeth, existing restorations, or questions about whether whitening is right for you.

Ready to Brighten Your Smile?

If you would like your teeth to look brighter, start by talking with us about what you hope to achieve. We can evaluate your smile, answer your questions, and help you decide whether professional teeth whitening is a good option for you.

Call for more information or to schedule an appointment with Foley Family Dentistry in Foley, AL.

Call (251) 257-7009