Teeth Whitening Questions

in Virginia Beach, VA

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What causes tooth discoloration?
A variety of things. Aging and consuming staining beverages, such as coffee, black tea, colas, and red wine, as well as tobacco products are the most common. Some tooth discoloration is the result of antibiotics such as tetracycline used when baby teeth are still forming, or too much fluoride.

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Why should I whiten my teeth?
Almost everyone would prefer whiter teeth to give you a brighter smile. Because of this, tooth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. Whitening the teeth with cosmetic dentist Dr. Folck’s help can get rid of stains and discoloration of the enamel and dentin in a safe, fast and effective way. When your teeth are whiter, you will smile with confidence and your smile will show a marked improvement.

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What kind of whitening treatment should I get?
Dr. Folck uses the in-office Zoom! whitening procedure in conjunction with Nite White at-home trays. With the Zoom! procedure, the results are immediate. Using this tooth whitening procedure with your dental regimen at home will keep your teeth whiter for longer than using only at-home treatments, such as bleaching strips or toothpaste with whitener. Your teeth will be up to eight shades whiter than before the Zoom! treatment. Occasional home use of Nite White whitening gel will help keep your teeth brighter for longer. If you prefer to only use the Nite White take home whitening trays, Dr. Folck can arrange the customization of the trays for you.

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How does the Zoom! procedure work?
After you have decided with Dr. Folck that tooth whitening is an option for you, he will first clean your teeth. After covering your lips and gums, leaving only your teeth exposed, Dr. Folck will apply the Zoom! whitening gel, which acts together with the Zoom! light. The active ingredient in the gel is hydrogen peroxide. The light helps in activating the hydrogen peroxide to penetrate the surface of the tooth. These work together, penetrating your teeth and, breaking up stains and discoloration. This is done in three 15-minute sessions in one visit. Including prep time, and a fluoride rinse after, your Zoom! tooth whitening procedure is over in up to 90 minutes.

The Nite White take-home application comes with instructions on how to use the gel, as well as custom-made trays fitted by Dr. Folck. The gel’s active ingredient is also hydrogen peroxide. By wearing the tray with the gel for 20 to 30 minutes, you are continuing to penetrate any stains your teeth might have.

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Are there any side effects?
Some patients with sensitive teeth may feel slightly discomfited during the procedure. While the Zoom! light gives off minimal heat, this is where the discomfort may come from. A minor tingling sensation may occur rarely after the procedure, but quickly goes away. An anti-sensitivity toothpaste is available. Ask Dr. Folck if you feel that anti-sensitivity toothpaste will help you.

Using tooth whitening procedures have dramatically improved the smiles of those who have used them. If you want a whiter and brighter smile, please contact our teeth whitening expert Dr. Folck to discuss which teeth whitening procedure is best.

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Call or email us today to learn more about Dr. Folck, our office, and what we can do for you. Your first consultation is no-obligation so you've got nothing to lose, and plenty to gain!