We’ve all been at the receiving end of a disarming smile and know how lasting an impression that can make. Still, many of us struggle with a lack of confidence in our smile because our teeth are stained or yellowed. Pelham Links Family and Cosmetic Dentistry is excited to offer our patients a solution in the form of professional teeth whitening in Greenville and Simpsonville.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure designed to lighten the color of teeth and remove stains and discoloration. It involves using bleaching agents or special whitening products to break down and remove deep-seated stains and restore a brighter, more youthful appearance to the teeth.

Teeth whitening can be performed in a dental office under professional supervision or at home using over-the-counter whitening products, customized trays, or strips. It's a popular and non-invasive way to enhance the aesthetics of one's smile, often resulting in a more confident and radient appearance.

Why Choose to Whiten My Teeth With a Dentist?

Although there are many over-the-counter treatments, it’s hard to tell which ones will be the most effective. Many of the options you can find at a store might require lengthy treatments or potentially damage your teeth. When you come to the dentist for a teeth whitening treatment, you’ll receive specialized care in the safety of a supervised environment and receive fast results after just a single treatment.

Why Do Teeth Become Discolored?

Teeth lose their color due to a wide array of reasons. Yellowing can occur as part of the natural aging process or as a result of certain medications. Staining on the other hand is most often the result of certain dietary choices. Food and drink like coffee and wine, can easily cause stains to appear on your teeth over time.

What Are the Different Types of Teeth Whitening?

• In-Office Teeth Whitening: This is performed by a dentist or dental hygienist in a dental office. It involves the application of a high-concentration whitening gel to the teeth, often activated by a special light or laser. In-office whitening typically provides rapid and noticeable results in a single appointment.
  
• At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits: These kits are available over the counter or can be provided by a dentist. They usually consist of custom-made trays or strips with lower-concentration whitenng gel. At-home kits allow gradual whitening for days or weeks with daily use.
  
• Whitening Toothpaste: Whitening toothpaste contains mild abrasives and chemicals that help remove surface stains. While they can improve tooth color, they're less effective than other deep-seated or intrinsic stain methods.
  
• Whitening Strips: These are thin, flexible strips coated with a peroxide-based gel. They're applied directly to the teeth and left in place for a specified time, usually once or twice a day for a few weeks. They can be purchased over the counter or provided by a dentist.
  
• Whitening Rinses: Whitening rinses are liquid mouthwashes that contain a whitening agent, such as hydrogen peroxide. They're swished around the mouth for a minute or so before spitting out. While they can help freshen breath and lighten teeth to some extent, their effectiveness may be limited compared to other methods.
  

We offer several options of Opalescence® whitening products, including in-office Boost®, custom trays for our Bright-for-Life program, and even take-home one-time-use To-Go trays. Please consult with a staff member for more information.

Benefits of Whiter Teeth

• Boost to confidence
  
• Enhanced self-esteem
  
• Decrease danger of gum disease
  

How Long Do the Results of Teeth Whitening Last?

The duration of teeth whitening results can vary depending on certain factors, including the method used, dietary habits, and oral care. Regular dental check-ups can help monitor the condition of your teeth and determine when a touch-up or maintenance treatment may be necessary. Additionally, consulting with our dentist before and after teeth whitening can provide personalized guidance on maintaining your brighter smile.