A Q&A With Dr. Julianne Colvin of Crawford & Colvin Dentistry
A healthy white smile is one of the most attractive features in our society today. It can boost confidence and motivate healthy maintenance habits for good overall health. Over time, we often notice yellowing of our teeth due to age and eating and drinking habits. Patients often ask about teeth-whitening options to revitalize and brighten their smile, and there are several aspects to consider:
Who can whiten their teeth? If done correctly, teeth-whitening is safe and effective for anyone who has all of their adult teeth in healthy condition. It does not cause damage to tooth enamel and there are very few long-term risks. It is important to note that teeth with crowns and fillings will not respond well to whitening treatments, nor will those with cavities or poor surrounding gum health. Most dentists recommend whitening no earlier than the age of 14, as many teeth are still erupting during this time and are prone to higher sensitivity. Pregnant and nursing women should also avoid whitening, as the potential impact of swallowed whitening agents on a fetus or baby is unknown.
How does it work? The most effective whitening products contain hydrogen or carbamide peroxide, which penetrates tooth enamel and reaches discolored molecules within the dentin layer of the tooth. These internal stains are dissolved, producing whiter teeth. There may be some temporary sensitivity during the whitening process, but no damage or harm is caused to the tooth structure itself, when used as directed. It is important to avoid prolonged contact of peroxide products with gum tissue, however, as this can result in unnecessary soreness and inflammation which can last a few days.
What are my options? Teeth bleaching continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. Bleaching works by using peroxide-based agents to break down stains and discoloration on the enamel and dentin, effectively lightening the shade of your teeth. While over-the-counter products like whitening strips, gels, and trays are widely available and convenient, professional treatments performed by a dentist offer faster and more dramatic results.
What should patients expect with teeth bleaching? In-office procedures typically use a higher concentration of bleaching agents and may include light or laser activation to accelerate the process. However, not all discoloration can be erased with bleach—intrinsic stains caused by medication or trauma may require veneers or bonding. Tooth sensitivity is a common side effect but is usually temporary. To maintain your results, it’s important to avoid staining foods and beverages like coffee, red wine, and dark berries, especially in the first 48 hours after treatment. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental checkups also help extend the benefits of bleaching. In general, teeth bleaching offers a safe, effective, and relatively quick path to a brighter smile.
Dr. Julianne Colvin is a family and cosmetic dentist who shares ownership of Crawford & Colvin Dentistry located at 16525 Birkdale Commons Parkway, Suite 300, in Huntersville. You can reach Dr. Colvin at 704.895.5850 or schedule online at www.LakeNormanDentist.com.
