Dr. Louis Ong DDS is a leading provider of cosmetic dentistry in London Ontario. Teeth whitening, implants, we can do it all. Visit us online today at www.pearlyteeth.com today to find out more.

1. Effective Whitening Options for
Older Teeth

2. Throughout life, a good-looking
smile is invaluable at work and at play.
In later years, teeth can lose their
luster in response to smoking and
certain foods and drinks. Fortunately,
teeth-whitening technology has
virtually eliminated this problem for
many older people. The most popular
teeth whitening methods are discussed
below.

3. Over The Counter Products
In some cases, individuals with discolored teeth see
results from diligent use of good whitening toothpastes.
These products combine the cleaning power of
conventional toothpaste formulas with bleaching and
abrasive ingredients such as hydrogen peroxide and baking
soda. In most cases, whitening toothpastes are most
appropriate when used as part of an ongoing regimen for
control of yellowing caused by daily lifestyle habits. If teeth
are significantly stained to begin with, individuals should
allow at least six months for results to show up

4. Many people also have luck with whitening chewing gums and
whitening strips. As with whitening toothpastes, these products
are often formulated with baking soda and low levels of hydrogen
peroxide. Again, these products are usually best for mild cases of
discoloration or for ongoing maintenance between comprehensive
whitening treatments.

5. Teeth Whitening by Dentists
When tooth discoloration
has become severe,
professional whitening
treatments administered by
a dentist are usually the best
option. In-office tooth
whitening procedures are
the most expensive, but they
are also extremely effective
for even the most stained
enamel.

6. Before treatment, the teeth
are polished using pumice, then
barriers are placed over the
gums to protect them during
the whitening process. Dentists
apply peroxide bleaching
solutions to the teeth and use a
dental laser to activate the
power of these active
ingredients. The entire process
can take up to an hour,
depending on the specific
treatment being used.

7. When patients go this route, they can expect to have a
beautiful set of pearly whites before leaving the dentist's
office. To prevent re-staining, patients are advised to wait at
least a full day after treatment before consuming heavily
pigmented foods or beverages.

8. Dentists also dispense treatments for patients to apply
to their teeth at home. In these cases, professional
compounds are created that include strong ingredients not
available in stores. Depending on the severity of the stains,
dentists create a specific concentration based on a shade
chart that corresponds to tooth color.

9. Post-Treatment Whitening Habits
To reduce or prevent future
staining, patients should maintain
healthy habits in their diet and
lifestyle. People who smoke cigarettes
or drink large amounts of coffee or
cola drinks may want to use whitening
toothpastes regularly or all of the time.
Immediately after consuming heavily
pigmented foods or drinks, patients
should rinse with water at the very
least; if possible, brushing with
toothpaste and rinsing using
mouthwash is even more effective.

10. A bright white wet of gleaming teeth is a classic sign of
vibrant health that anybody, young or old, can appreciate.
For modern older individuals with a normal lifestyle that
includes various teeth-staining habits, fast and easy
whitening solutions are available on store shelves or at the
dentist's office.