Am I Right for Teeth Whitening?

What constitutes an ideal smile? While most people would agree that fairly straight and even, white, unstained teeth are the most attractive, the question of what makes a smile beautiful is a subjective concept. For some people, especially in the entertainment world where public scrutiny can be unrelenting, nothing short of perfect symmetry and stellar white teeth will do. For others (think icons like Madonna, Willem Dafoe, and Lauren Hutton), their uniquely imperfect teeth are a signature of individualism and personality.

Professional Teeth Whitening in Laurel, MD

When it comes to professional teeth whitening, some people may shy away from the procedure out of fear their teeth will look unnatural, or that it might fail to produce the desired results. As with any cosmetic dentistry procedure, teeth whitening produces individual results that will vary from patient to patient. In addition to lifestyle habits like drinking coffee, tea, red wine, and smoking cigarettes, other factors like age, trauma, and certain medications can stain teeth.

Contrary to popular belief, all tooth whitening products are not created equal. Different stains can be more resistant to bleaching agents depending on factors like the cause of the staining and the color (grayish stains for example may be more difficult to remove). Simply buying a whitening toothpaste or an over the counter bleaching kit may seem easier and more convenient, but it may not be as effective or as long-lasting as a professional whitening by a dentist. Dr. John N. Kim advises his Laurel patients to get a comprehensive oral exam in order to identify the best method for obtaining a whiter smile that will improve both the color and overall appearance of their teeth. For many people, an investment in whiter teeth and a brighter smile can also provide a boost in self image and confidence.

Contact a Dentist in Laurel, MD

To learn more about professional teeth whitening and whether the procedure is right for you, contact Dr. John N. Kim today at (301) 604-8117 to schedule an appointment.