Restore Your Smile with Teeth Whitening

The Value of Teeth Whitening

Do you have a busy schedule or dental anxiety and would rather whiten your teeth in the comfort of your home? Our dentists offer at-home whitening with custom trays fitted to your mouth.

One of the side effects of over-the-counter teeth whitening products may be increased tooth sensitivity. They may have more abrasive ingredients that can erode enamel, which is lost forever. Whether it’s whitening trays or strips, it poses the same danger to your teeth.

Professional teeth whitening does not pose this danger. Although, some patients with more sensitive teeth may experience brief flashes of pain called “zingers” during whitening treatment. However, this discomfort should stop after the treatment is finished and can easily be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.

Limit Discoloring Foods & Beverages

It’s important to limit certain foods and drinks if you want to keep a naturally white smile. One of the biggest culprits of tooth discoloration is coffee. We know that coffee is a staple of most people’s morning routine, but if you want a whiter smile, you’ll likely need to find an alternative or drink less of it. 

There are a fair amount of other foods that can discolor your teeth such as tea, wine, berries, tomato sauce. Darker soft drinks and other alcoholic beverages also erode your enamel and stain your teeth making for a duller smile.

Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Have you ever noticed that your teeth are naturally whiter after a professional teeth cleaning? This is because tartar (hardened plaque) can make your teeth look more gray or yellow. Only a dental professional can remove tartar which is why it’s important to see our dentists once every six months.

If plaque and tartar aren’t removed, their buildup can increase your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily are some of the best ways to help maintain your oral health and keep your teeth from yellowing.

What We Offer

Our cosmetic dentists are proud to offer both GLO Science Professional Whitening and Opalescence whitening. Both use a professional grade whitening gel that can provide you with a brighter smile when used as directed.

In-office GLO whitening allows patients to get up to 10 shades brighter in only one visit to our Portage dental office. The mouthpiece used for the procedure uses a patented combination of warming heat and light to make the whitening process even faster while still remaining comfortable for the patient. Another bonus is that with this clinically proven technology, there is no risk for “zingers” or flashes of pain. 

Opalescence is a take-home gel solution with a customized treatment plan unique to your teeth that gives you real results. The gel is applied to your teeth via custom-made trays and is available in a wide variety of flavors and formulas. 

Schedule an Appointment

Are you ready for a brighter smile? Our cosmetic dentists in Portage, MI, can help you whiten your smile. Dr. Scott Ellard wants you to feel more confident in the appearance of your smile. To schedule an appointment, call Scott Ellard Dentistry & Facial Aesthetics at (269) 329-1880.