Ways to reduce teeth staining and what you need to know

Achieving a brighter, whiter smile is a common goal for many, and with today’s advancements in dental care, it’s more accessible than ever before. At Glee Dental Surgery in Singapore, we love to transform smiles with professional teeth whitening services. Here is a guide for everything you need to know about teeth whitening, from treatment options to care tips post-whitening.

What is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure aimed at removing teeth stains and lightening the pigmentation of your teeth. It can significantly enhance the aesthetics of your smile by using bleaching agents that break down stains, making the teeth appear whiter and brighter.

Types of Teeth Stains

Teeth stains are primarily categorized into two types:

• Extrinsic Stains: These are surface stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, and other substances that reside on the outer layer of the tooth.

Extrinsic stains can be in green, orange brown yellow or black in colour. Green and orange stains are usually when chromogenic bacteria are present and caused by poor hygiene. Brown stains are more common and could be due to tobacco and food or beverage consumption.

Yellow extrinsic stain is evident of heavy plaque buildup.

Black staining is less common and usually associated with iron-producing bacteria in the saliva. Black extrinsic stain is not due to poor hygiene and is commonly found as a line around the gingiva margins.

Extrinsic stain can usually be removed by normal scaling or polishing.

• Intrinsic Stains: These stains are deeper and result from medication, aging, or trauma affecting the tooth from the inside.

Intrinsic stains are usually in yellow, brown, gray or orange in colour. It can also be in white or brown spots on teeth. White or brown spots on teeth can be caused by dental fluorosis, demineralization and hypocalcification.

Intrinsic stains cannot be removed by scaling or polishing.

At Glee Dental Surgery Singapore, we can help you determine the treatment option for your teeth stains and teeth whitening. Click here to contact us and book an appointment.

Teeth Whitening Treatment Options

At Glee Dental Surgery, we offer a range of teeth whitening options tailored to our patients’ needs:

• In-Office Whitening: A quick and effective method involving professional bleaching under carefully monitored conditions with the Philips Zoom! Whitening system.
• At-Home Whitening Kits: Custom-made trays and gels provided by our clinic for you to use at your convenience.
• Internal Bleaching: A whitening agent is placed in previously root canal-treated teeth which has already been discoloured, especially on the front teeth.

Post-Whitening Care

Maintaining your newly whitened teeth is crucial. Here are a few tips to keep your teeth stain-free and white post treatment:

• Avoid dark-colored food beverages like coffee, tea, and red wine for the first 48 hours after your teeth whitening procedure. You can eat any white food such as chicken, rice, yoghurt and drink water or coconut water.
• Follow up with touch-up treatments as recommended by your dentist.

Foods to Avoid After Teeth Whitening

To preserve the effects of your teeth whitening treatment, for the first 48 hours, steer clear of foods that can cause stains.

Food and drink that usually cause stains:

• Coffee
• Tea
• Red wine
• Berries
• Red sauces
• Dark-colored beverages

Food safe to consume after your teeth whitening treatment:
Milk

• Water
• Clear sodas
• Bananas
• Apples (without peel)
• White bread
• Flour tortillas
• Oatmeal
• Cream of wheat
• Plain yogurts
• White cheese
• Sour cream
• Cottage cheese
• White rice
• Baked potato
• Plain pasta with white sauce
• Turkey
• Chicken breast (without skin)
• Fish (white)

Preventing Long-Term Stains

Long-term care involves avoiding the same staining agents and additionally:

• Rinse your mouth after consuming stain-causing foods and drinks.
• Use a straw for beverages that might stain.
• Maintain regular dental cleanings and check-ups.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

The results of teeth whitening can last from six months to two years, but this varies based on lifestyle and oral hygiene. Regular touch-ups and proper maintenance may prolong the effects.

Is Whitening Suitable for Everyone?

While teeth whitening is safe for most individuals, it isn’t suitable for everyone. Patients with sensitive teeth, gum disease, or restorations such as crowns and veneers should consult with their dentist.

Can I Whiten Just One Tooth?

Yes, it’s possible to whiten a single tooth that may have discolored due to trauma or decay. This targeted treatment will help in creating an uniform smile but a consultation with the dentist is required prior to whitening.

At Glee Dental Surgery in Singapore, we’re dedicated to providing our patients with effective teeth whitening solutions tailored to their individual needs. Whether you’re considering whitening for the first time or looking for a touch-up, our dedicated team is here to help you achieve your dream smile.

Remember, the best way to determine the appropriate treatment is by consulting with a professional. Schedule your appointment today to learn more about how we can brighten your smile!