Tired of your dull smile? Try professional teeth whitening from Ruland Family Dentistry in Annapolis, MD! Dr. John Ruland and Dr. Michael Ruland are accomplished in all aspects of cosmetic dentistry and will guide you toward your goal of a refreshed smile. Read on to learn the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions on this popular treatment!

FAQs on teeth whitening

Would over-the-counter whitening toothpaste or one of those rinses help my teeth look whiter? Some whitening products from the drugstore or supermarket improve tooth color a bit. However, if incorrectly applied, they can hurt your gums and any exposed roots. Professional teeth whitening is safer because your cosmetic dentist in Annapolis, MD, inspects your teeth and gums first before whitening. Also, he takes steps to protect your soft tissues as you undergo either the in-office or at-home treatments.

Is teeth whitening for everyone? Teens and adults with healthy teeth and gums may have their teeth professionally whitened. However, people with many restorations may not be good candidates and could benefit instead from other services such as bonding or veneers. Pregnant or lactating moms should postpone whitening and other cosmetic procedures.

How did my teeth get so stained? Smoking could be to blame, as could highly colored foods and beverages. Consuming very acidic foods such as tomato sauce and citrus fruits can also have an effect, given that they soften enamel and make it porous. Age, some prescription medications, oral injury and root canal therapy darken tooth color, as well.

What's the active ingredient in teeth whitening products? Our professional team uses concentrated hydrogen peroxide gel for both in-office and at-home treatments. In-office whitening treatments usually take no more than an hour, and involve the simple process of applying the gel, allowing it to penetrate enamel, and finally rinsing it off. At-home gels are less concentrated and do their work over the course of several days, through the use of custom-made trays.

How well will it work? Most patients see several shades of color improvement—a dramatic improvement from before!

How can I make my new look last? Be careful what you put in your mouth, drink plenty of water every day, and avoid tobacco. Eat few items that are darkly pigmented (e.g. coffee, tea, and soy sauce). Brush and floss daily, and come to Ruland Family Dentistry twice a year for an examination and hygienic cleaning.

Give us a call!

If you are interested in giving your look an overhaul, call the office today for a consultation: (410) 268-5800.