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Teeth Whitening Specialist

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Teeth Whitening services offered in Richmond , TX

If you’d like to boost the shade of your smile, professional teeth whitening is a great option. This service is among the options available from Nicole Thompson, DMD, of Lovely Smiles Orthodontics in Richmond, Texas. Convenient online booking is available around the clock, or you can always call to check appointment availability.

Teeth Whitening Q & A

Why are my teeth less bright and white than they used to be?

If you’ve noticed changes in the color of your teeth, you’re certainly not alone. Teeth can become yellowed or stained over time for many reasons, some of which are within your control and others that are not.

The aging process is a primary cause of discoloration. That’s because the thin white shell of enamel that gives your teeth their white appearance will thin over the years. More of the underlying dentin will shine through, and dentin is naturally yellow in color. 

Additional factors that can cause or worsen tooth discoloration include:

  • Excessive exposure to fluoride
  • Poor dental hygiene
  • Food or drinks that stain, including tea, coffee, berries, and many sauces
  • Traumatic injury
  • Certain medications and treatments
  • Tobacco use

Fortunately, there are treatments that can brighten and whiten your smile safely and effectively. 

What is professional teeth whitening?

Professional teeth whitening offers the ability to dramatically increase the brightness of your smile without damaging your teeth or soft tissues. At Lovely Smiles Orthodontics, Dr. Thompson offers in-house whitening treatments as well as take-home options. 

In-house whitening uses a powerful solution to blast apart stains and reveal a brighter smile. Dr. Thompson carefully isolates your tongue and other soft tissues before applying a layer of whitening solution to the front sides of your teeth. 

After the whitening solution has done its job, your teeth are thoroughly rinsed and you can appreciate your results right away. The entire process only takes 30-45 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately after your session. 

At-home whitening allows you to control the shade of your smile. Whitening pens let you “paint” the areas where a whitening boost is desired. Tray-based whitening kits use custom-fitted trays and powerful whitening gel to brighten your teeth. You can whiten on your schedule while listening to music or taking care of tasks at home or work.  

How can I extend the results of professional teeth whitening?

Once you see how bright and healthy your smile can be, you’ll want to do everything you can to preserve those results. With the right care and attention, you can maintain the results of professional whitening for a long time. However teeth whitening does not last forever. Dr. Thompson recommends touch up treatments every 6-12 months.

One thing you can do to keep your teeth white and gleaming is to schedule routine dental exams and professional cleanings. These visits allow your dental team to detect signs of decay or gum disease in the early stages when treatment is often most effective.

You can also avoid future staining by changing the way you enjoy food and beverages known to darken teeth. Special straws help you sip coffee, tea, or wine without letting the fluid hit the surface of your teeth. After eating foods that stain, try gently rinsing your mouth or brushing your teeth.

If you’re ready for a smile you’ll be excited to share with the world, call Lovely Smiles Orthodontics to set up a visit. Online booking is also available and takes just moments to complete.