Teeth can become discolored for lots of reasons. Surface discoloration – staining in the enamel of the teeth – is the most common type of staining and usually occurs as a result of drinking or eating foods that stain, like coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries and other foods and beverages, as well as smoking and use of other tobacco products. It can also occur as a result of poor cleaning habits when teeth aren't brushed and flossed properly. Far less often, teeth can become stained in their interiors as a result of long-term use of medication, decay or root canal therapy.

Yes, for several reasons. First, professional teeth whitening treatments use whitening agents reserved for use by professionals for results that are brighter and more consistent. Professional in-office whitening can be performed in a single treatment, and take-home kits from your dentist also are designed to be more effective than over-the-counter treatments. Having your teeth whitened professionally also ensures minor issues like tiny cracks can be detected and fixed prior to treatment to reduce the chances of increased sensitivity. And finally, professional application and administration ensures your treatment is both effective and safe for your teeth. We offer both in-office whitening treatments and take-home kits to help patients maintain their results between office-based treatments.

Yes, today's professional whitening products are designed for safe use under a dentist's supervision so you can get a great-looking smile without worrying about damaging the structure of your teeth.

Teeth whitening procedures may still help brighten your teeth, but other options like veneers or crowns may be more effective. We can help you determine the best method for your needs.