Bleaching

Teeth whitening is a treatment we may not really consider bleaching. The truth is "teeth whitening" is a marketing term used to describe bleaching. The process through which stains are lifted from the tiny pores in enamel has been developed over centuries. In ancient times, humans attempted to remove stains using substances such as vinegar and pumice. Just a few centuries ago, teeth may have been etched with peroxide, though the concentration of this solution was not perfected until sometime in the 1980s.

Today, due to the immediate availability of commercial products, teeth whitening may seem an everyday task that is easy to do. We are inundated with products that promise to brighten and whiten the smile, products such as "whitening" pastes and rinses or daily-use strips supposedly effective on every person. In reality, we are again looking at an issue of marketing. Legally speaking, the "whitening" claim means only that a particular product may potentially remove surface debris from tooth enamel. As such, many of the whitening pastes on the market contain no more than abrasive particles that polish the teeth.

Whitening strips are a different story. These products do actually contain some type of peroxide solution. In this situation, however, results tend to be limited by the concentration of the whitening agent. Much like the early attempts of dental professionals to use peroxide, commercial manufacturers simply cannot provide the right ingredients in the right amounts to achieve the desired effect on enamel. As such, many people who try commercial whitening strips are left disappointed and frustrated.

Bleaching done right

Teeth become discolored so gradually in most cases that the change in color is not noticed until stains have accumulated significantly. By this time, low-dose commercial products are simply too weak to reach stains.

Dr. Valerie Fuller provides patients from Marietta and surrounding areas with options to achieve beautiful results in the period that works for them. Home whitening using professional-grade whitening solution in combination with custom-fitted trays is safe and far more efficient than any commercial product. When time is of the essence, patients may choose to remove stubborn stains with our in-office Zoom! whitening treatment designed to lift several shades in a single, one-hour visit.

Understanding what it takes to achieve the desired result, Dr. Fuller designs cosmetic dental care around the individual patient. Your smile deserves personalized attention. Call (770) 977 7757, where we LOVE. LIFE. SMILE. BRIGHT.