Teeth Whitening in Greenville, SC

Why Would I Need Teeth Whitening?

You might have the healthiest teeth and the straightest smile, but you’re not immune to the damage that everyone faces from everyday food and drink. Foods, coffee, tea, red wine, and soda stain our teeth over time. Our teeth may also become discolored from smoking, trauma, aging, and taking medications such as certain antihistamines or high blood pressure medications. Benefits of whitening your teeth at Trail West include:

•  Enhanced smile
•  Improved appearance 
•  Eliminates discoloration
•  Reverses the effects of aging

Cost of Cosmetic Teeth Whitening

A cosmetic tooth whitening treatment at a dentist’s office typically costs $300 to $400, but you may not have to pay out of pocket since some dental insurance providers cover the treatment cost. To get more information on your coverage details, we recommend contacting your insurance provider.

ICON Treatment for White Spots on Teeth

In addition to traditional teeth whitening, Trail West Family Dentistry also offers ICON treatment. ICON treatment is for correcting white spots on teeth. This common discoloration can be caused by:

• Fluorosis: A condition caused by overexposure to fluoride as a young child 
• Demineralization: This is a natural process that occurs when your enamel begins to lose some of its mineral content. 
• Orthodontic Treatment: Since braces make it difficult to thoroughly clean your teeth and keep plaque at bay, many people are left with white spots after their orthodontic treatment.

ICON Treatment targets these white spots using a resin material to even out the color of your teeth. Here’s what you can expect from the process:

• First, the dentist roughens the surface of your tooth so that the resin can properly soak into the tooth.
• Next, the resin is applied and forms a bond with the tooth structure.
• After the extra is removed, the resin is hardened with a special light.
• Your teeth are then polished to complete the treatment. 

ICON treatment only takes about an hour and does not cause any pain which means it does not require anesthesia. This treatment is beneficial to those with teeth stains that would not respond to traditional tooth whitening methods and is much cheaper than alternatives like porcelain veneers.

Common Myths about Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure, but there are several myths surrounding it. Here are some common misconceptions and the facts to set the record straight:

1. Teeth Whitening Damages Enamel: One of the most prevalent myths is that teeth whitening damages the enamel. In reality, professional teeth whitening at Trail West Family Dentistry is safe when performed under the supervision of our experienced dentists. The bleaching agents used are designed to lift stains without harming your enamel.
2. Whitening Results are Permanent: Another common belief is that whitening results are permanent. While professional whitening can last for a long time, maintaining your bright smile requires proper dental hygiene and occasional touch-ups, especially if you consume staining foods and drinks.
3. All Teeth Whitening is the Same: Many people think that all teeth whitening treatments are the same. However, professional teeth whitening at Trail West Family Dentistry uses high-concentration bleaching agents and advanced techniques that are more effective and faster than over-the-counter products.
4. Whitening Toothpaste Works the Same as Professional Whitening: Whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains but does not provide the same level of whiteness as professional treatments. These toothpastes often contain mild abrasives and low concentrations of bleaching agents that cannot penetrate deep stains.
5. You Can Whiten Dental Restorations: Teeth whitening treatments do not work on dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have restorations, our dentists can discuss alternative options to ensure a uniform, bright smile.

How Often Should You Get Professional Teeth Whitening?

For many, an annual touch-up is enough to keep teeth bright. Our dentists, will assess your teeth during regular visits and recommend a suitable schedule. This ensures a consistently radiant smile without risking over-whitening and sensitivity. Some may need more frequent whitening if they notice yellowing sooner. Our team can provide quick touch-ups to refresh your smile. It’s essential to avoid over-whitening, as excessive bleaching can harm your enamel. Always consult with our dentists to determine the best frequency for your needs.

Is Teeth Whitening Safe for Everyone?

While most people can benefit from teeth whitening, it may not be suitable for individuals with certain dental conditions:

• Sensitive Teeth: If you have extremely sensitive teeth, our dentists may recommend alternative treatments to avoid discomfort.
• Dental Restorations: Teeth whitening does not affect the color of crowns, veneers, or fillings. If you have these restorations, whitening may result in uneven coloration.
• Oral Health Issues: Patients with gum disease, cavities, or exposed roots should address these issues before considering teeth whitening. Whitening treatments can aggravate these conditions.