Portal Family Dentistry & Orthodontics

Orthodontists & Cosmetic & Family Dentistry
located in Katy, TX

Teeth whitening is one of the quickest and easiest ways to enhance your smile. At Portal Family Dentistry & Orthodontics in Katy, Texas, Gustavo Salas, DDS, MS, offers in-house teeth whitening, in addition to teeth whitening to-go. If you’re ready to give your teeth a brighter appearance, call the office today or book your appointment online with the skilled team.

Teeth Whitening Q & A

How does teeth whitening work?

At your appointment with Portal Family Dentistry & Orthodontics, your dentist creates the right size dental tray for your mouth and fills it with a hydrogen peroxide whitening solution. Then the trays are inserted over your teeth.

In addition, a bright light shines on your teeth during the process. You simply relax while your teeth are being whitened up to eight shades in a single session. The process usually takes less than an hour.

The practice also has teeth whitening to-go kits that you can apply yourself at home, which whitens your teeth but at a slower pace. The to-go kit can also help you maintain the whitening you received at your office visit.

Is teeth whitening safe?

The team at Portal Family Dentistry & Orthodontics provides professional treatments that are proven safe and effective. You can choose to have an office appointment where your teeth are whitened in one visit or you can use the teeth whitening to-go kit at home that whitens your teeth gradually.

The teeth whitening solution isn’t dangerous or unsafe for your teeth or mouth. You might feel some sensitivity on your gums and teeth from the bleaching agents, but those side effects disappear quickly.

Why are my teeth discolored?

As you age, your teeth can begin to lose their white appearance for several reasons. In some cases, it’s due to poor oral hygiene. It may also be what you’re consuming.

Examples of food or drinks that can affect the color of your teeth include:

  • Coffee
  • Red wine
  • Dark soda
  • Berries

The enamel on your teeth can get worn down from acids in foods, antibiotics, tobacco, and even overbrushing.

In addition, as you age, the enamel on your teeth gets thinner, exposing a layer called dentin, which is a gray or yellow color.

How can I maintain my results from my teeth whitening treatment?

Once your teeth have been whitened, you can be proactive about keeping them that way. Recommendations include:

  • Brushing your teeth twice a day
  • Floss your teeth once a day
  • Avoid foods and drinks that stain
  • Don’t smoke
  • Visit your dentist twice a year for routine exams

Your at-home teeth whitening kit can help maintain the bright appearance of your teeth, too.

To schedule an appointment to have your teeth whitened, call the office or use the convenient online booking tool today.