Are you unhappy because your teeth are discolored? That’s not uncommon. Tooth discoloration is normal as we get older, and it’s especially problematic for people who enjoy normal lifestyle choices like coffee, tea, chocolate, berries, or red wine. Discoloration can make your smile look prematurely old, unhealthy, and unattractive. Fortunately, teeth whitening is a very effective way to treat discoloration, and dentists offer a more successful form than you can get at the grocery store. Our dental office uses Pola professional whitening.
Want to learn how bright your smile can be? Please call 760.832.7915 today for an appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Rod Strober, serving the entire Coachella Valley from Country Club Dentistry in Rancho Mirage.
How Teeth Whitening Works
Teeth get discolored because of large stain molecules that get trapped in your tooth enamel. Your teeth might feel smooth, but they’re actually full of tiny pits and crags, especially if you enjoy acidic foods and beverages, or it’s been a long time since your last dental appointment (where we polish your teeth). Many foods and beverages contain these staining compounds (even foods and drinks that look white), so it’s natural to accumulate stains over time.
Whitening works because the whitening chemicals break down the stain molecules, releasing them from your teeth. With Pola, we offer three different ways to whiten your teeth. First, is the in-office teeth whitening. In-office whitening provides you with immediate results in just under an hour. The take-home kit, on the other hand, allows you to whiten your teeth whenever it’s convenient for you. Lastly, Pola Paint allows you to make small touch-ups whenever you need them, on-the-go.
Does Whitening Damage Teeth?
Not when done according to guidelines. Teeth whitening can remove minerals from your teeth, but the body has the ability to replenish lost minerals. If you’re brushing and flossing and not whitening too much, your body will replace the lost minerals to keep your teeth healthy.
Is Whitening Tooth Bleaching?
No. Whitening doesn’t use bleach, and it works by removing stains, not by painting your teeth artificially white.
Advantages of Whitening at the Dentist
These days, there are many options for teeth whitening that you can get at every grocery, drug, or convenience store. So why should you go to a dentist for whitening? When you go to a dentist, you will:
- Make sure your teeth are healthy enough for whitening
- Know if whitening will work before you start
- Use stronger whiteners for better results
- Even whitening results
- Get help to avoid sensitivity
One of the big problems with using whiteners from the store is that people try to whiten teeth that aren’t healthy or that won’t respond to whitening. When you work with a dentist, they will make sure whitening will be safe and effective for you.
Another problem is that store-bought whiteners are relatively weak to try to make them safer. This means they might not work well for you. Plus, it can be hard to use the strips, swabs, and trays they use, so you might end up with uneven whitening, which can look unattractive. At our office, we either paint the whitener on your entire tooth surface or give you custom-fitted trays that ensure even contact between the whitener and your teeth.
Tooth sensitivity affects many people who whiten their teeth, but we have ways to diminish it. Talk to us about your sensitivity and we’ll customize your procedure to control it.
Limitations of Teeth Whitening
While whitening is a very effective way to remove tooth stains, it does have limitations. It won’t work if your teeth are discolored because of:
- Defects in the enamel
- Metal fillings
- Thin or damaged enamel
- Discoloration from within the tooth
If you have teeth damaged by fluorosis or other enamel defects, whitening won’t do much to help. Metal fillings start out silver, but they turn black when they rust. This can actually discolor your entire tooth, and whitening won’t help.
Whitening also doesn’t help if your enamel is thin because of erosion or damaged by oral bacteria, trauma, or other causes. Finally, it won’t help if the source of discoloration is inside the tooth, such as bruising or infection of the tooth pulp.
In these cases, we might recommend tooth-colored fillings, dental veneers, or dental crowns to cover the tooth discoloration. For damaged or infected teeth, root canal therapy might also be necessary.
In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedure
At Country Club Dentistry, we proudly offer Pola Teeth Whitening, a professional-grade solution designed to quickly and effectively brighten your smile. Pola’s advanced whitening formula targets stains caused by coffee, tea, wine, tobacco, and other common culprits of tooth discoloration. The in-office procedure is ideal for patients looking to achieve results in just one visit, making it perfect for weddings, events, or anyone seeking a quick confidence boost. Here is how the procedure will go:
- Initial Assessment:Â Dr. Strober evaluates your oral health and shade preferences to customize your treatment plan.
- Protective Barrier Application:Â A protective barrier is applied to your gums to ensure comfort and prevent irritation.
- Application of Pola Whitening Gel:Â The Pola gel, with its high concentration of hydrogen peroxide, is carefully applied to the teeth to break down stains.
- Optional Light Activation:Â A specialized light may be used to accelerate the whitening process and ensure even, long-lasting results.
- Quick Results:Â Within about an hour, most patients leave with teeth that are several shades brighter, all in the comfort of our modern office.
Why Choose Country Club Dentistry for Teeth Whitening
Country Club Dentistry, led by Dr. Rod Strober, provides a personalized approach to achieving your best smile. With nearly 30 years of experience in cosmetic dentistry, Dr. Strober is a recognized expert known for his artistic touch and precision. Our Rancho Mirage office utilizes advanced technology and innovative techniques to deliver safe, effective, and comfortable treatments.
Whether you want to restore your teeth’s natural brightness or achieve a movie-star-worthy smile, you’ll benefit from Dr. Strober’s extensive training and passion for creating outstanding results. A commitment to cutting-edge technology is what sets Country Club Dentistry apart. When you choose us, you choose a team committed to creating a comfortable experience while delivering radiant, long-lasting results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Pola teeth whitening cause sensitivity?
While some patients may experience sensitivity, it is typically mild and short-lived. The Pola formula contains desensitizing agents to minimize discomfort.
How long will the whitening results last?
With proper care, including proper oral hygiene and staying away from staining foods and beverages, results can last several months to a year.
Can anyone get Pola teeth whitening?
Adults who have healthy teeth and gums are good candidates. However, individuals with severe tooth sensitivity or gum issues should consult their dentist first.
How often can I get Pola whitening done?
Most patients can have the procedure every 6-12 months, depending on oral health and lifestyle.
Will Pola whitening work on teeth with fluorosis (white spots)?
Pola can help improve the overall appearance of discolored teeth, but severe fluorosis may require additional treatments.
Can I eat right after the procedure?
You should wait at least 30 minutes before eating and avoid dark-colored foods for 24-48 hours.
Is there a difference between in-office Pola whitening and at-home kits?
Yes, in-office treatments use higher-strength gel, producing faster, more dramatic results than at-home options.
How can I protect my teeth from future stains after Pola whitening?
Practice good oral hygiene, limit staining foods and beverages, and consider using a straw when drinking dark liquids.
Brighter Smiles in the Coachella Valley
Are you unhappy because your smile is too dim? We have the power to brighten your smile, even if it won’t respond to teeth whitening. Please call 760.832.7915 today for an appointment with cosmetic dentist Dr. Rod Strober at Country Club Dentistry in Rancho Mirage.