How White is Too White?

We see it every day. From movies to magazines, Hollywood conveys smiles whiter than snow. But how white is too white?

A Good Rule of Thumb

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry , teeth whitening is the No. 1 requested cosmetic service today. The problem, though, is that many people are taking it too far. Over whitening can cause loss of enamel or translucent and unnatural looking teeth. If taken to the extreme, teeth can lose their healthy sheen. A good rule of thumb is that the color of your teeth should match the whites of your eyes .

What Causes Discoloration?

There are many causes for tooth discoloration. As we age our teeth often become naturally darker, yellow or stained. Some main causes of internal and external tooth discoloration are due to genetics, tooth decay, trauma, antibiotics and certain foods.

Get Teeth Whitening Advice from a Boise Dentist

For your best smile restoration, it’s important to consult with your Boise dentist about your preferred whitening method as they are best qualified to handle any issues that may arise from your whitening treatment. With a Boise teeth cleaning, many external stains can be removed while promoting good oral health. During this process your Boise dentist can go over your expectations while guiding you on what is appropriate concerning your overall Boise dental care plan.

Likewise, tooth whitening may not enhance your smile if you’ve had bonding or tooth-colored fillings placed in your front teeth. The whitener will not affect the color of these materials, and they will not match your newly whitened smile. In these cases, you may want to investigate other Boise cosmetic dentistry options, such as porcelain veneers or dental bonding on other teeth.