Teeth Whitening

Thanks to teeth whitening treatment, it’s easy to eliminate stains caused by tobacco, coffee, and the natural aging process. At Chesterfield Dentistry, cosmetic dentist Melba Akinwande, DDS, and the team offer in-office professional teeth whitening and take-home teeth whitening trays to teens and adults. If you want a whiter and more aesthetically pleasing smile, call the office in Chesterfield or Richmond Heights, Missouri, or book online today.

What is teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure that minimizes tooth stains and tooth discoloration. Most whitening treatments use medical-grade solutions like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide to oxidize molecules inside your tooth enamel. The oxidation process makes your teeth whiter, effectively turning back the clock.

Why do teeth change color?

Teeth naturally change color as you age. Over the years, daily activities like brushing, flossing, and eating wear away at your enamel, revealing more of the yellow dentin beneath. 

Several other factors may also contribute to stains and discoloration, including:

• Drinking beverages like coffee and red wine
• Using tobacco
• Taking medications with tetracycline
• Eating spicy or acidic foods (like curries or tomato-based sauces, for example)

You might also experience yellow or discolored teeth due to poor oral hygiene. It’s crucial to brush your teeth twice daily and visit Chesterfield Dentistry every six months for routine cleanings and exams. 

What are the types of teeth whitening?

At Chesterfield Dentistry, the team offers several types of teeth whitening, including:

In-office professional teeth whitening

If you want to brighten your smile instantly, consider professional teeth whitening. During professional teeth whitening, your Chesterfield Dentistry provider covers your gums and tongue with a protective sheet.

Then, they apply a medical-grade whitening solution to each of your teeth. The solution sits for about 15 minutes until your provider points a special light at them. The light triggers a whitening reaction, making your smile significantly lighter.

Take-home teeth whitening trays

If you want to whiten your teeth gradually, consider take-home teeth whitening trays. 

Take-home teeth whitening trays are plastic mouthpieces that fit snugly over your teeth. You line them with a prescribed whitening solution and wear them for several hours at a time when it works with your schedule. 

Do the results of teeth whitening last for long?

Teeth whitening results typically last between four and six months* on average, but it’s possible to extend them by practicing good oral hygiene. The team at Chesterfield Dentistry recommends brushing your teeth twice daily, drinking dark beverages with a straw, and undergoing professional teeth cleaning every six months.

Make a teeth whitening appointment at Chesterfield Dentistry by calling the nearest office or booking online today.

*Individual results may vary.