Stephen B Effron DDS

The procedures used for teeth whitening today no longer include the harsh abrasives that they once did. Abrasives have been replaced with chemical bleaching agents that go after the stains deep inside each tooth. The final result is that the teeth then become neutralized.

When you whiten your teeth, don’t worry, you’ll just whiten your teeth and not your gums and lips. Usually a liquid or cream is applied to your gums and then hardened to form a barrier that will protect them.

French dentists were the first Europeans to promote the use of toothbrushes in the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries. However, most Americans did not brush their teeth until Army soldiers brought their enforced habits of tooth brushing back home after World War II.

Do you have sensitive teeth that are always causing little twinges of pain? Since over the counter tooth whiteners can be damaging to teeth, it’s very important to leave this to the professionals.

Do you know why professional teeth whitening is preferred over at-home kits? Dentists have access to professional-strength teeth whiteners that are much more effective than regular drug store products. For example, the hydrogen peroxide used in dentists offices can have up to 35 percent strength versus the 3 percent strength you’ll find in drug stores.

If you’re contemplating having missing teeth replaced with dental implants, you have lots of company. More than 3 million Americans have one or more dental implants, and each year another 500,000 opt to for the procedure.

Once your kids reach a certain age, it becomes their responsibility to brush their teeth properly each day. While your constant reminders may annoy them, your efforts will later be rewarded when they don’t have cavities at their check-ups.

While years ago patients only had a few choices when it came to whitening their teeth, today there are a number of products and options available in a wide price range that will effectively address a variety of stains.

Teeth that have a yellow hue can be whitened by a cosmetic dentist using whiteners with high levels of peroxide. Patients can have the treatment done in the dentist's office, which is quick and ensures the whiteners are safely applied.

Smoking is one of the leading causes of tooth loss, but some types of cosmetic dentistry procedures cannot be performed on smokers. If you are a smoker, talk with your doctor as soon as possible about how to stop smoking.

Do you want to see the difference between your stained teeth and your whitened teeth? Ask your dentist to take a picture of your teeth before and after the procedure.

While coffee, tea, and caramel-colored sodas are well known for staining teeth, did you know that fruit juices can stain teeth too? To maintain a whiter, brighter smile, try to stick with clear liquids, or brush your teeth after drinking any colored beverages.

The major difference between in-office and at-home teeth whitening is time. While the in-office teeth whitening typically costs more, you will see results immediately after your appointment. With the at-home trays, it may take one to two weeks.