Why More Patients in Clinton Township Are Choosing Professional Teeth Whitening
A brighter smile can make a lasting first impression. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, job interview, vacation, graduation, or simply want to feel more confident, professional teeth whitening is a popular way to enhance your smile.
While over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpaste can help remove some stains, results vary. Some products may also cause tooth sensitivity or uneven whitening.
At Smile Street Dental, we offer POLA® professional teeth whitening, a whitening system designed to brighten your smile while helping minimize sensitivity. If you’re looking for professional teeth whitening in Clinton Township, MI, here’s what to know about POLA and whether it’s right for you.
What Is POLA Teeth Whitening?
POLA is a professional teeth whitening system that uses whitening gel to help remove stains and lighten the appearance of teeth.
Compared with many store-bought products, professional whitening can offer several benefits:
- Noticeable results: Professional products can provide more significant whitening than some over-the-counter options.
- Sensitivity-conscious formulas: Certain POLA products include ingredients intended to help reduce sensitivity.
- More consistent treatment: Your dentist can recommend an approach based on your teeth and whitening goals.
- Professional guidance: Your dental team can help determine whether whitening is appropriate for your smile.
Depending on your treatment plan, whitening may be completed in the dental office or with a take-home system recommended by your dentist.
Why Do Teeth Become Stained?
Even with good oral hygiene, teeth can darken or become discolored over time.
Common causes of tooth discoloration include:
- Coffee and tea
- Red wine and soft drinks
- Tobacco use
- Aging
- Certain medications
- Dark-colored foods
- Inadequate oral hygiene
Professional whitening can help reduce many stains, although results depend on the cause and severity of the discoloration.
Why Choose Professional Teeth Whitening?
Over-the-counter whitening products vary in strength and fit. Professional whitening gives your dental team the opportunity to evaluate your oral health and recommend a treatment that fits your needs.
Noticeable Results
Professional whitening may brighten teeth more effectively than whitening toothpaste alone. Your results will depend on your starting shade, the type of discoloration and the treatment used.
More Even Whitening
Your dentist can help select an approach designed to whiten your visible teeth more consistently. Existing dental work, such as crowns and veneers, may not change color with whitening treatment.
Help Managing Sensitivity
Tooth sensitivity can occur with any whitening treatment. Some POLA formulas are designed to help minimize sensitivity, but your experience will depend on the product used and your individual needs.
If you’ve experienced discomfort with other whitening products, let your dental team know before treatment.
Professional Evaluation and Guidance
Before whitening, your dentist can evaluate your teeth and gums and identify issues that may need attention first, such as cavities or gum disease. Professional guidance also helps set realistic expectations for your results.
Is POLA Whitening Right for You?
Professional whitening may be worth considering if you have:
- Yellow or stained teeth
- Coffee or tea stains
- Tobacco-related discoloration
- Age-related discoloration
- Healthy teeth and gums
- A desire for a brighter smile
During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and determine whether whitening is a good fit. Some types of discoloration respond better to whitening than others, so your dentist can help you understand what results may be realistic.
What to Expect During Your Whitening Appointment
Every smile is different, but your whitening appointment may include the following steps.
Comprehensive Dental Evaluation
Your dentist examines your teeth and gums to determine whether you’re a good candidate for whitening.
Professional Cleaning, If Needed
Removing plaque and surface buildup before whitening may help prepare your teeth for treatment.
Whitening Treatment
Your whitening treatment is performed using professional POLA products according to your recommended treatment plan.
Aftercare Instructions
We’ll provide guidance to help you maintain your results, manage any sensitivity and reduce future staining.
How Long Do Whitening Results Last?
Whitening results vary depending on your habits, oral hygiene and the type of treatment you receive. Results may last for months or longer, but teeth can gradually become stained again.
To help maintain your brighter smile:
- Brush and floss daily.
- Limit coffee, tea and red wine if they contribute to staining.
- Avoid tobacco products.
- Schedule regular professional cleanings.
- Use touch-up treatments only as recommended by your dentist.
Routine preventive care