You have most likely had a professional dental cleaning. If you go to the dentist regularly, you have a cleaning about every 6 months. But have you ever had a deep cleaning?
A deep cleaning of your teeth refers to scaling and root planing in dental terminology. These procedures are commonly used together to treat and manage gum disease.
If your dentist has recommended scaling and root planing, you may be wondering how long this procedure lasts. Here’s what you can expect.
What is Scaling?
Scaling is a procedure that cleans the teeth and roots under the gum tissue. Plaque is a sticky substance made up of food particles and bacteria that clings to the teeth and can cause tooth decay. When it is not removed from the teeth it eventually hardens into calculus. Calculus contains bacteria that have matured to the point of infecting the gum tissue, which is the cause of gum disease.
Scaling is the process of removing calculus that has formed below the gum line on the roots of your teeth. By removing calculus, the source of the infection is eliminated and the gum tissue can begin to heal.
What is Root Planing?
Root planing is the procedure that follows scaling. After the calculus is removed from the roots of your teeth, the surface tends to be rough and uneven. Root planing buffs the roots until they are smooth, which allows the gum tissue to reattach to the teeth more closely, eliminating the spaces where plaque can get under your gums.
Average Length of a Deep Cleaning
A deep cleaning of your teeth may take anywhere from one to two hours. The length of the process is largely determined by the amount of calculus that has formed on your teeth. In some cases you may need two separate appointments to address one half of your mouth and then the other. After the first deep cleaning, subsequent deep cleanings will most likely be shorter and less invasive.
Do You Need Anesthesia for Scaling and Root Planing?
A deep cleaning of your teeth requires access to the roots under the gums. This requires local anesthesia to numb your gum tissue so that you don’t feel any discomfort during the procedure.
Periodontal Maintenance
Depending on your individual needs, periodic scaling and root planing appointments may be necessary to maintain your oral health. scaling and root planing consists of deep cleaning appointments on a regular schedule to manage gum disease. The frequency of your appointments will be determined based on the rate at which your teeth develop plaque and calculus, as well as the severity of your gum disease.
Frequently Asked Questions About Scaling and Root Planing
Does everyone need scaling and root planing?
Scaling and root planing are designed specifically for patients who have severe or chronic gum disease that has progressed to the point where a deep cleaning is necessary. For many patients regular dental cleanings every 6 months are sufficient to maintain your oral health.
How often do I need scaling and root planing?
Your periodontal maintenance schedule will be determined by your individual needs. Some patients may need deep cleanings once a month, others every other month, and others every 3 months. These are just some examples of typical schedules. There is no one-size-fits-all option.
Who Provides Scaling and Root Planing?
scaling and root planing are periodontal procedures provided by Hamden Dental Arts. We can set up a periodontal maintenance plan that will fit into your schedule. Experience better oral health and general wellness with periodic deep cleanings of your teeth.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
It can happen to anyone. You have an important event coming up and you’ve suddenly realized your teeth are looking a little yellow. But you have a limited amount of time to whiten your teeth. What do you do? How do you whiten teeth quickly? Fear not, there is a fast and effective solution.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening treatment provided by your dentist is the most effective way to get whiter teeth. In-office teeth whitening can provide dramatic results in just one treatment. At-home teeth whitening treatments provide similar results in a few weeks.
How Does In-Office Teeth Whitening Work?
The first step in the process is a consultation where we discuss your goals and choose the shade of white you are hoping to achieve. Then a protective barrier is applied to the gums, either a rubber shield or gel. Next the whitening agent is applied to the teeth and a special light is used to activate it, which accelerates the whitening process. Once your teeth have reached the desired shade of white, your treatment is complete.
How Does At-Home Teeth Whitening Work?
If you would prefer to whiten your teeth more gradually at home, a custom tray will be made for you that fits your teeth precisely. You can apply the whitening agent with the tray and leave it in place for as long as you need to achieve the desired results. You will need to apply whitening treatment daily for about 2 weeks or until you reach the shade of white you want.
Which Whitening Treatment is Right For Me?
If you need fast results in a short period of time, in-office teeth whitening would be your best option. You can see the change in your teeth immediately, which means you can be ready for your big day, whenever it is.
Maybe you have a few weeks before your event and would prefer to whiten your teeth at home. As long as you have the time, at-home teeth whitening will provide results more gradually, which can also be more comfortable.
Schedule Teeth Whitening Treatment Today
Are you ready to get started with the teeth whitening process? Start by scheduling a consultation with Hamden Dental Arts. We will discuss your goals and perform an oral evaluation to ensure that you are an ideal candidate for teeth whitening treatment. Then we can schedule an appointment to apply your treatment, or order your at-home whitening kit, whichever option you would prefer.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening
How long do the results of professional teeth whitening last?
Results of in-office professional teeth whitening typically last for 1-3 years. The results of at-home whitening may last for up to a year. Periodic touch ups between treatments can help you maintain your results.
Are over the counter whitening products effective?
Over the counter teeth whitening products do not contain the same active ingredient as professional whitening, and therefore do not provide the same results. Teeth whitening products you can purchase at the store may whiten your teeth somewhat, but not as much as professional products and the results typically don’t last as long.
Do you want a whiter smile but have sensitive teeth? Teeth whitening can be a challenge when your teeth are already sensitive. Many whitening products can cause or increase sensitivity. So what can you do to whiten your teeth without making sensitivity worse?
There are options for you, but they aren’t in the store. It’s time to talk to your dentist about teeth whitening treatments.
Professional vs Store Bought Whitening Treatments
The biggest difference between store bought whitening products and professional treatments is the active ingredient. Store bought whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide as a whitening agent and professional treatments contain carbamide peroxide, which is stronger. Carbamide peroxide offers more dramatic results than hydrogen peroxide.
Another important difference between professional and store bought whitening is that professional whitening treatments are applied by your dentist with care and precision. Steps are taken to protect your tooth enamel and gum tissue during treatment. This reduces sensitivity and prevents irritation.
Benefits of In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
Professional teeth whitening treatment applied by your dentist in the office is the most effective and safest way to whiten your teeth. The reason is that your dentist is in control of the process, providing the necessary protection for your teeth and gums that will prevent sensitivity and irritation. They also have the ability to control the degree of whitening so that your teeth will be a natural shade of white. A special light is used during in-office treatment to activate the whitening agent and accelerate your results.
Benefits of At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening Treatment
When it comes to avoiding sensitivity during whitening, at-home treatments provided by your dentist have a lower concentration of the whitening agent than the in-office version. This means that it will take a few weeks of treatments to see results, but the process is gradual and easier on your tooth enamel. You’ll experience less sensitivity with at-home professional teeth whitening than with store bought products used at home.
What Can I Do To Reduce Sensitivity?
If your teeth are sensitive before or after whitening treatment, there are specific toothpastes made to reduce sensitivity. You can purchase sensitive teeth toothpaste in the store, but your dentist can prescribe you a stronger version you can get from a pharmacy. Extremely sensitive teeth respond better to prescription strength toothpaste with a higher concentration of fluoride to strengthen your enamel.
What To Avoid To Reduce Sensitive Teeth
There are some things you can avoid that may reduce your sensitivity:
- Acidic foods and drinks. It can help your sensitivity to avoid acidic foods and beverages such as coffee, soft drinks, fruit, and pickles.
- Hard or medium toothbrushes. It is best to use a soft bristled toothbrush. Hard or medium brushes can wear away your tooth enamel.
- Toothpaste containing baking soda. Baking soda is an abrasive substance that can wear away your tooth enamel and make sensitivity worse.
- Vigorous brushing. If you brush too vigorously or too hard you can brush away the top layer of tooth enamel, increasing your sensitivity.
- Repeated use of store bought whitening products. If you are consistently using teeth whitening products you buy at the store, these can eventually cause damage to your tooth enamel and increase sensitivity.
Hamden Dental Arts Provides Professional Teeth Whitening
If you have sensitive teeth but want a whiter smile, Hamden Dental Arts can help. We provide safe and effective whitening treatment that won’t increase your tooth sensitivity. Through careful application we control the amount of the whitening agent for a natural looking and healthy feeling smile.
Call 203-248-7400 or contact us to learn more and schedule an appointment.
Whitening your teeth is one of the quickest and easiest ways to improve your smile. It is also one of the most common cosmetic dentistry procedures. There are many teeth whitening products available in stores, online, and from your dentist’s office.
With so many different and easily accessible ways to whiten your teeth, one question often arises: can you whiten your teeth too much? Learn the risks associated with teeth whitening treatments and how to use them safely and effectively.
Types of Teeth Whitening Treatment
There are many different types of teeth whitening treatments:
Over the counter teeth whitening:
- Toothpaste. There are many whitening toothpastes that you can purchase in the store. In fact, it's hard to find a tube of toothpaste that doesn’t include whitening ingredients. These provide minimal results, but you may find your teeth slightly whiter than before.
- Mouthwash. Some mouthwashes contain a whitening ingredient. When combined with whitening toothpaste, you may find that you get better results.
- Wands. Whitening wands include a whitening gel that you apply to your teeth with a wand or brush. These may be slightly more effective than toothpaste and mouthwash.
- Strips. Whitening strips are clear plastic strips you apply to your teeth that contain a whitening agent. They are the most effective over the counter product, but still don’t provide results that compare to professional treatments.
Professional teeth whitening:
- In-office. Professional whitening treatment is applied in the dentist’s office. In just one treatment you will have dramatically whiter teeth.
- At-home. Professional whitening treatments also come in a version you can take home and use daily for a few weeks. You’ll achieve similar results to in-office treatment, the process just takes a little longer.
Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening treatments have many benefits over store products, such as:
- Safe. The ingredients in professional whitening treatments are strong but safe. They won’t damage your tooth enamel in any way.
- Natural look. Your dentist can control the amount of whitening treatment applied so that your teeth look brighter but still natural. At-home whitening works gradually, allowing you to stop whitening when you have achieved your desired results.
- Fast results. Professional whitening treatments contain active ingredients that work quickly to give you a whiter smile in a single in-office treatment or as little as 2 weeks at home.
Risks of Too Much Teeth Whitening
There are some risks associated with whitening your teeth too much:
- Unnatural look. If your teeth are too white they may look fake. Too much whitening can also make your teeth look translucent rather than white, which also gives them an unnatural appearance.
- Damage to your enamel. Most whitening products contain either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, both of which are highly acidic and will eventually erode your tooth enamel when used too frequently. This leaves your teeth weak and prone to decay or breakage.
- Soft tissue irritation. The acidity of the whitening agents can also cause irritation to your gums and the other soft tissues of your mouth.
- Sensitive teeth. Over-whitening can cause your teeth to become sensitive to cold, heat, and sugar which can limit your eating and drinking capabilities.
How Can I Be Sure I Am Whitening Safely?
The best way to safely whiten your teeth is to do it under the supervision of your dentist using professional products. Follow your dentist’s instructions for at-home treatment and avoid overuse of the products.
Hamden Dental Arts Provides Safe and Effective Teeth Whitening
If you’re looking for a safe way to whiten your smile, Hamden Dental Arts provides professional whitening treatment that is gentle and effective. We provide both in-office and at-home treatment for your convenience.
To learn more call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
Activated charcoal has become popular in many health and beauty products, including toothpaste, face masks, and more. But does activated charcoal really whiten teeth? Is it safe to use? In this blog post, we’ll explore the science behind activated charcoal and whether or not it is an effective teeth-whitening solution. We’ll also discuss the potential risks of using activated charcoal for this purpose. By the end, you should have a good understanding of the effectiveness and safety of this natural product.
What Is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a form of carbon processed to make it highly porous and absorbent. It’s typically made from organic materials such as wood, coconut shells, or coal and is commonly used for air and water filtration. In addition, activated charcoal is sometimes used in toothpaste and is said to have teeth-whitening properties.
How Does Activated Charcoal Work to Whiten Teeth?
Activated charcoal has been touted as a natural teeth-whitening solution, as it is said to draw out bacteria and toxins from the teeth that can cause discoloration. The premise is that activated charcoal can bind to the discolored molecules in the teeth and remove them when it is rinsed away. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim, and activated charcoal may be abrasive and potentially harmful to the enamel of the teeth.
Why Isn’t Activated Charcoal Recommended for Tooth Whitening?
The Journal of the American Dental Association reviewed research into activated charcoal, and multiple studies have failed to prove that it is safe or effective for tooth whitening. Studies have also failed to prove claims that charcoal preparations kill bacteria and detoxify the mouth.
Using toothpaste with activated charcoal can gradually scratch away enamel, much like using plain baking soda over time. This abrasive charcoal can expose a naturally yellow layer called dentin; once the enamel is gone, dentists cannot get it back. Removing the enamel could lead to more sensitivity and tooth decay, and commercial charcoal toothpaste does not often contain fluoride, which could contribute to increased tooth decay.
Recommended Teeth Whitening Methods
In-office dental whitening is a safe and effective teeth whitening method that produces impressive results. This procedure is quick and painless and is performed by trained and qualified medical professionals. In addition, many dentists offer other methods to whiten teeth, like at-home whitening kits. The results of these professional treatments are more long-lasting than other over-the-counter teeth whitening treatments. Pair your professional teeth whitening with thorough, daily brushing and flossing for the best results.
Teeth Whitening in Hamden, CT
At Golia Dental, we specialize in providing quality teeth whitening services to patients in the Hamden, CT, area. Our office utilizes state-of-the-art technology and techniques to provide a safe and effective teeth-whitening experience. Everyone’s smile is unique, so we work with each patient to develop a personalized plan to achieve optimal results. With our in-office professional whitening system, you can get your teeth several shades whiter in as little as one appointment. Contact Hamden Dental Artsl today to learn more about our services or request an appointment online.
t’s no secret that a bright, white smile can make you feel more confident and attractive. Professional teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic treatments for those looking to improve their smile, but how long does it typically last? Keep reading to learn more about teeth whitening and how you can ensure your results last as long as possible.
The Different Types of Professional Teeth Whitening
When it comes to teeth whitening, there are a few different methods available. The most common type of professional teeth whitening is done using a peroxide-based gel applied directly to the teeth. This type of whitening uses a combination of hydrogen and carbamide peroxide, which helps to lift away stains from your enamel. In-office whitening is usually done in one appointment and often yields the best results.
Take-home whitening kits are also available for those who want to whiten their teeth on their own. These kits typically include a customized tray with whitening gel that you apply yourself in the comfort of your own home. While it may take several days or even weeks to achieve the desired results, take-home whitening kits can effectively and conveniently whiten your teeth.
How Long Teeth Whitening Lasts
The longevity of professional teeth whitening results varies depending on the type of treatment that you choose. For example, with in-office teeth whitening, results can last up to two years, and at-home whitening kit results can last between six months to one year, depending on your home care habits and lifestyle. Professional whitening results tend to last longer than over-the-counter treatments due to the higher strength of the peroxide gel used. Professional whitening is also more effective because it provides a deeper, more even whitening effect compared to what you can get from an at-home kit. Generally, the longer you keep up with your professional whitening treatments, the longer the results will last.
Maintaining Your Teeth After Whitening
It is important to remember that after having your teeth professionally whitened, the results will only last for a certain amount of time. However, you can do several things to help maintain the whiteness of your teeth and ensure it lasts as long as possible. One of the most important things to do is to take care of your oral hygiene by brushing and flossing at least twice daily. This will help keep food particles and bacteria away from the enamel, which can cause discoloration. Also, avoid drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine, as well as dark sauces or condiments that may stain your teeth. Lastly, remember to visit your dentist regularly so they can monitor your teeth and make sure they stay healthy.
Hamden, CT Teeth Whitening
Hamden Dental Arts offers professional teeth whitening to patients throughout the Hamden area and has decades of dental industry experience. We are dedicated to helping you get the smile of your dreams through our cosmetic dentistry services. Schedule an appointment online or call us at 203-248-7400 to find out how we can help you get the smile you deserve.
Do you want a whiter smile? One of the defining features of a healthy looking smile is white teeth. But over time your teeth become discolored for a variety of reasons. Teeth naturally become more yellow as you age because the enamel gradually breaks down and the pulp (nerve) recedes with age, allowing the yellow color of the inside layers of your teeth to show through. Certain beverages and foods can also stain your teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, and tomato sauce.
If your smile has been looking a little dull lately, you may be wondering about whitening treatments. What’s the best method for whitening your teeth? Here’s an overview of the options available and what gets the best results.
Method 1: Store Bought Whitening Products
As you may know, there are a wide variety of whitening products available in stores. From whitening toothpaste to mouthwash to whitening strips, these products promise to remove stains and whiten your teeth. The active ingredient or bleaching agent in these products is usually hydrogen peroxide. Whitening toothpaste will sometimes include baking soda to scrub away surface stains.
Method 2: Home Remedies
You may have heard that you can save some money by making your own whitening products out of ingredients you have at home. These ingredients may include baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and even strawberries and pineapple. The natural acids in fruit are what is said to remove stains from the teeth but I do not recommend it.
Method 3: Professional Whitening Treatments
Another option for whitening your teeth is professional whitening treatments you can get from your dentist. There are in-office treatments that can be applied in one appointment for dramatic results. There are also at-home treatments that include a custom made tray from your dentist and a whitening gel you can apply at home. This may take a few weeks of treatments to get the desired results.
Which is the Most Effective Whitening Treatment?
Between these 3 options you will most likely find that professional whitening treatment gives you the best results. Professional strength whitening treatment includes a different active ingredient, carbamide peroxide, which is a stronger bleaching agent. This is why it is only available from your dentist who can ensure that it is a safe option for your teeth. Your dentist will apply the treatment in the office or provide you with instructions for using it safely and effectively at home.
Added Benefits of Professional Whitening Treatment
In addition to providing more dramatic results, professional whitening treatments offer additional benefits:
- Reduced sensitivity. Carbamide peroxide is a safe whitening agent that won’t damage tooth enamel and cause sensitivity. Patients often find that professional whitening treatments don’t cause the same tooth sensitivity that comes from store bought whitening strips. Additionally, application of Relief Gel post whitening helps a lot.
- Gum protection. In-office professional whitening treatment is the only treatment that includes a rubber guard or protective gel that is applied to the gums to prevent irritation.
- Fast results. Professional whitening treatments provide faster results than other whitening products.
- Save money. You may think that you’ll save money buying whitening products from the store because they cost less. However, to achieve and maintain your results, you’ll find that you need to buy more and more of the product, which can add up quickly.
Hamden Dental Arts Provides Teeth Whitening Treatments
Hamden Dental Arts offers both in-office and at-home teeth whitening treatments. If you have healthy teeth that don’t look their best, professional teeth whitening treatment can brighten your smile in as little as one application.
To learn more, call 203-248-7400 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.
If you’re looking for a bright new smile, teeth whitening is the best way to get that new, bright look. Whether your teeth are stained, yellowed, or uneven in color, teeth whitening is an effective and simple solution.
In fact, most people find stains and yellowing will occur to teeth over time. Whitening your teeth will improve the way your teeth appear, and give you a more youthful, pleasing smile.
The type of whitening you choose affects the length of time whitening will last.
What Types of Teeth Whitening Can I Choose From?
You can choose from professional teeth whitening in your dentist’s office, or take-home kits provided by your dentist to allow pro whitening at home. Or, you can choose an over-the-counter whitening tool.
Professional Whitening In-Office
Your teeth can become up to 8 shades more white in a single visit to your dental team’s office. There, after whitening solution is applied to your teeth, a special laser light will be applied to activate teeth whitening quickly for a fast and aesthetically attractive result.
Professional Teeth Whitening at Home
If you opt for professional tooth whitening at home, your dental team can provide that choice as well, designing personalized whitening trays for you to use at home, and providing you with a bleaching gel and instructions for optimal use. These kits also work well to help you maintain in-office whitening treatment as long as possible.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening
If you choose a peroxide-based over-the-counter teeth whitening choice, you can choose from a variety of products, including teeth whitening strips.
How well teeth whitening strips, or any over-the-counter whitening product such as toothpaste, rinses, and gels, work depends on the concentration level of peroxide in the product. Typically, it ranges between 10% and 22%.
The Success of Teeth Whitening Strips
How well teeth whitening strips work depends on the peroxide concentration you purchase. Strips are usually more effective than toothpaste or rinses.
Strips are coated with a peroxide-based gel, and are usually applied for around 30 minutes, twice a day for approximately two weeks. The effects will not be as noticeable or long-lasting as professional treatment from your dentist, but if discoloration or stains is fairly light, they can be quite effective.
Other Over-The-Counter Whitening Choices
Along with whitening strips, you can choose to apply a gel to the tooth surface using a small brush, twice a day for two weeks.
Or you can use tooth whitening toothpaste to remove surface stains. It does not contain bleach, so it will not make your teeth more than about a shade lighter.
Whitening rinses or mouthwash with hydrogen peroxide work by whitening teeth when swished in the mouth twice a day for around a minute. They are less effective in general than other products you can purchase to whiten your teeth over the counter.
Can Whitening Strips Damage My Teeth?
While professional teeth whitening cannot damage your teeth, over-the-counter products, including whitening strips can cause irritation and enamel damage over time, especially if used often. Whitening strips and other OTC products can also damage dental restoration work.
Will Teeth Whitening Last?
While not permanent, teeth whitening that is professionally done can last for years. Over-the-counter products like whitening strips will usually last for around four months.
No teeth whitening treatment will last forever, but you can also help to extend your new shiny look with the practice of routine dental hygiene including regular twice daily brushing and flossing, and scheduled visits to your dentist for an exam and cleaning. It also can help to stay away from staining foods or beverages such as red wine or tea, as well as some berries.
Want to Learn More about Options for Teeth Whitening?
If you’d like to learn more about teeth whitening options, from professional in-office treatment to over-the-counter products such as white strips, we are ready to help. Reach out to us at Hamden Dental Arts today!