Teeth Whitening Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are My Teeth Discolored?

There are many reasons your teeth may be discolored. The most common discoloration is yellow. While yellow teeth may be caused by poor oral hygiene, the most common culprits are food and drinks that are highly pigmented and stain the teeth. People who consume a lot of tea, coffee, and red wine often develop yellow teeth. Medications and aging also contribute to yellowing.

If your teeth have a grey, blue, or brown tinge or the discoloration is in horizontal stripes across the teeth, it may be the result of taking tetracycline as a child. Tobacco use, including cigarettes and chewing tobacco, can also stain your teeth.

How Long Does Teeth Whitening Last?

Depending on your at-home dental care routine and what you do to avoid re-staining your teeth, a Zoom whitening treatment typically lasts one to two years. You can lengthen the effect with periodic, at-home treatment. When you have your Zoom whitening treatment, ask about at-home trays you can use for occasional touch-ups to keep your teeth whiter longer.

Does Whitening Damage Your Teeth?

Professional teeth whitening, including Zoom, does not damage your teeth. Dr. Kirsch is thoroughly trained and skilled at performing the teeth whitening procedure safely and effectively to achieve maximum results. Store-bought teeth bleaching treatments can sometimes damage your teeth’s enamel if used too often or improperly. To avoid enamel erosion or painful sensitivity, always rely on your dentist to perform teeth whitening.

Can You Get Your Teeth Whitened with Restorations?

We recommend you have any natural teeth whitened before dental restorations, such as fillings, veneers, and crowns, so we can match your restorations to brighter, whiter teeth. If you already have dental restorations, consult with us before doing any teeth whitening. While Zoom does not change the color of restorations, it may loosen the dental cement bonding your teeth to them.

Can I Get My Teeth Whitened at Any Age?

Any adult can get their teeth whitened. However, the enamel on your teeth thins as you age, and the underlying dentin begins to show through. The dentin may have a slight grey or yellow cast, which bleaching does not reach. While you will still get whiter teeth when you are in your 70s, the results will not be as dramatic as when you are in your 40s.

Take the first step toward a whiter, brighter smile today. Call our office at 86th Street Dental Center Phone Number (212) 579-0213 or use our online contact form.