Teeth Whitening

Even the most thorough oral hygiene routine may not be enough to remove deep stains from your teeth. At Arlington Dental Care in Falls Church, Virginia, Homan Solemaninejad, DMD, provides safe, effective teeth whitening that can dramatically brighten your smile in one treatment. Call the office today or schedule an appointment online to find out how teeth whitening can help improve the appearance of your teeth.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a bleaching process that uses chemical solutions to lighten the shade of your teeth. Most whitening products contain either hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. While over-the-counter (OTC) solutions contain a percentage of peroxide ingredients, the concentration isn’t as high as in professional whitening products.

There are two types of stains that teeth whitening treats: extrinsic and intrinsic. While extrinsic stains sit on the surface of your tooth enamel — the hard layer that protects your teeth — intrinsic stains penetrate deeper. 

OTC products, like toothpastes, gels, and whitening strips can effectively reduce the appearance of extrinsic stains. However, intrinsic stains require professional treatments to remove.

How does teeth whitening work?

When Dr. Solemaninejad applies the whitening solution to your teeth, the volatile oxygen molecules in the peroxide attach to the stains and break their bond. This process allows the whitening solution to bleach your teeth, leaving them whiter in appearance. Professional teeth whitening works quickly for long-lasting, dramatic results.

Why might I consider teeth whitening?

If brushing and flossing aren’t enough to remove stains from your teeth, you may consider professional whitening. Most people notice that their smile darkens with age. 

As you get older, the thick enamel that protects your teeth starts to break down, exposing the darker dentin underneath. Dentin is the softer material that lies directly underneath your enamel, and is darker and yellower than enamel. 

Tooth discoloration can occur for many reasons, such as:

• Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine
• Eating soy sauce, curry, or marinara sauce
• Taking certain medications
• Undergoing chemotherapy or radiation
• Practicing poor oral hygiene
• Following a high-sugar diet
• Using fluoride treatments too frequently
• Grinding your teeth (bruxism)

Genetics also play a crucial role in your enamel makeup. While some people have naturally thick enamel, others have only a thin protective layer.

How can I maintain my smile after teeth whitening?

Preventing new stains can be a challenge after teeth whitening, but Dr. Solemaninejad has many tips to preserve your new smile. To keep your smile bright, you should:

• Limit tooth-staining drinks and foods
• Minimize your sugar intake
• Brush at least twice a day
• Floss at least once a day
• Schedule teeth cleanings every six months
• Return for teeth whitening once or twice a year

Call Arlington Dental Care today or schedule an appointment online to learn more about teeth whitening.