STAINED TEETH

I grew up in Africa, and the water has floride which stained my teeth.  Can you suggest an affordable plan that I can take to get rid of the stains?

Dr. Benbrahim:  There are many options to get rid of the stains, either teeth whitening or veneers.  Ask your dentist which one is best for you.

Best Tooth Whitening Techniques

Dr. Kaye: There are different types of whitening systems out there. In my extensive experience with several systems like Britesmile, Lazer, Zoom, Advanced Zoom, and Rembrant in office whitening systems I found that Zoom and Zoom Advanced produced the best whitening results. We offer several systems to our patients and we offer a complimentary consultation on which system would be most beneficial.

Re-Bleaching

How often will I have to re-bleach my teeth?

Dr. Guss: Most of our patients ask us to create an at home whitening maintenance kit. Using this maintenance just once a month for a half an hour at home helps to keep the teeth their new whiter shade for many years to come.

Tooth Whitening Advice

This week's question comes from Sayra asking for advice on tooth whitening procedures.

"hi, I'll be in California on vacation in May & was thinking of getting my teeth whitened can you advise of a waiting period and estimate of cost?"

Dr. Guss: The usual protocol is to have a thorough prophylaxis (cleaning) within 1-2 weeks prior to having in office tooth whitening. Fees for in office whitening vary in different geographic regions on the country and can range from $400-$700.

Cost

"How much does it cost?"

Dr. Guss: The fee for full mouth, in office, light activated tooth whitening runs between $350 and $600.

Chemicals in Tooth Whitening

"What are the chemicals used in teeth bleaching?"

Dr. Guss: The active whitening agent is carbamide peroxide which is similar to hydrogen peroxide which people for years have used to rinse their mouths.

Tooth Whitening

"Is Tooth Whitening Safe?"

Dr. Guss: Yes, tooth whitening is proven safe. It does not weaken the tooth or make it more prone to tooth decay.