A bright, white smile is an attractive feature and a sign of good oral health. However, your teeth can become stained or discolored over time due to age, diet, and lifestyle habits such as smoking.

However, the good news is that teeth stains and discoloration can be fixed. At Inverness Smiles: John Aiken, DMD, we offer advanced teeth whitening treatments that can help brighten and transform your smile in as little as one visit to our office. 

Common Factors Contributing to Teeth Stains

• Coffee, tea, red wine, berries, and deeply colored foods can stain tooth enamel over time.
• Smoking or chewing tobacco products can lead to severe teeth staining due to their tar and nicotine content.
• Inadequate brushing and flossing can allow plaque and tartar to accumulate, causing teeth to appear dull and yellow.
• As we age, the outer layer of tooth enamel may wear down, revealing the naturally yellowish dentin beneath.
• Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antibiotics, and some antipsychotic drugs, can cause teeth discoloration.

Teeth Whitening Options 

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening 

This type of treatment is performed in our office using a high-concentration bleaching agent that is applied evenly to the surfaces of your teeth. The whitening process is accelerated with the use of specialized lights or lasers.

In-office whitening delivers immediate and noticeable results, typically lightening the teeth by several shades in a single session.

Zoom Teeth Whitening

Zoom teeth whitening is a type of in-office professional teeth whitening procedure designed to enhance the natural beauty of one's smile by effectively eliminating stubborn stains and discoloration. With its advanced technology, Zoom teeth whitening utilizes a powerful yet safe hydrogen peroxide gel that is activated by a specialized LED light. The hydrogen peroxide gel penetrates the enamel and dentin layers of the tooth, targeting deep-seated stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, or aging. 

This innovative treatment ensures thorough coverage and quick results in just a single session lasting about 45 minutes to an hour. During the procedure, protective measures are taken to safeguard delicate gums and lips while exposing only the teeth for optimal treatment effectiveness. The procedure not only removes unsightly stains but also reveals a new level of brightness, up to eight shades lighter than before. Patients can enjoy immediate satisfaction with this efficient solution that guarantees long-lasting outcomes when coupled with proper oral hygiene practices under professional guidance.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

Although over-the-counter products like whitening toothpaste, strips, or gels are readily available, they also provide less efficient results than professional treatments. At our office, we offer professional kits to patients looking to whiten their teeth at home. These kits contain custom-made trays and a special gel that efficiently and quickly eliminates stains and brightens the teeth.

The Benefits of Teeth Whitening

Enhanced Aesthetics 

The most obvious benefit of teeth whitening is its ability to significantly improve your smile's appearance. Yellow or stained teeth can make you self-conscious and hesitant to show off your smile. Teeth whitening can help you regain a bright and radiant smile, boosting your confidence and helping you make a lasting impression.

Increased Self-Confidence 

A beautiful smile can enhance your self-esteem and self-confidence. Feeling good about your smile can positively impact various aspects of your life, from personal relationships to professional opportunities.

Improved Oral Health

Teeth whitening can have indirect benefits on your oral health. When you feel motivated to maintain a bright and healthy smile, you may be more inclined to practice good oral hygiene, such as regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

Positive Social Impression

A bright smile can leave a lasting positive impression on others. Whether in social settings or professional environments, a confident and attractive smile can help you make a favorable impact on those around you.

Tips for Maintaining a Bright Smile

• Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups help maintain a white smile and oral health.
• Reduce consumption of foods and beverages that stain teeth, and if consumed, rinse your mouth afterward.
• Breaking the smoking habit can prevent severe teeth staining and improve overall health.

Teeth whitening is a simple and effective way to rejuvenate your smile and regain self-assurance. If you are considering teeth whitening, visit Inverness Smiles: John Aiken, DMD, at 5291 Valleydale Rd, Suite 129, Birmingham, AL 35242, or call (205) 995-3989 to schedule an appointment.