A bright, white smile can leave a lasting impression. Yet, over time, teeth can become stained from coffee, tea, wine, or smoking, leaving many of us searching for ways to bring back that pearly white glow. Luckily, there are several effective methods to whiten your teeth, ranging from natural remedies to professional treatments. This guide will walk you through the best options and help you decide which approach is right for your smile.

Teeth Whitening Methods You Can Use at Home

Many people start brightening their teeth with at-home whitening methods, which are readily available and relatively affordable.

One popular choice is over-the-counter whitening kits, which often include strips or trays pre-filled with a whitening gel. They can effectively lighten your teeth by several shades over weeks of consistent use. Another option is using whitening toothpaste. While less intensive than kits or strips, whitening toothpaste helps remove surface stains with mild abrasives and can prevent new stains from forming.

For a more natural approach, some individuals use baking soda and hydrogen peroxide to lighten teeth. Baking soda gently scrubs away stains, while hydrogen peroxide acts as a bleaching agent. However, it’s crucial to use these sparingly as overuse may harm your enamel.

Whiten Teeth Naturally with Simple Remedies

For those seeking gentler options, natural remedies can help maintain a brighter smile. One such method is oil pulling, where you swish coconut oil in your mouth for 20 minutes to remove residual stains and bacteria. While oil pulling won’t dramatically whiten teeth, it can improve overall oral health and maintain shine.

Another natural option is eating crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery. These foods act like natural toothbrushes, scrubbing unseen particles and preventing discoloration. Additionally, dairy products, rich in calcium and phosphate, can strengthen enamel and contribute to a naturally whiter appearance.

However, it’s important to remember that natural remedies often work more gradually than other methods, so patience is key.

Benefits of Professional Teeth Whitening

For fast, noticeable, and long-lasting results, professional teeth whitening is your best option. Unlike home remedies or over-the-counter products, professional treatments offer a level of customization and precision that ensures safe and effective results tailored to your specific needs. 

What Happens During a Professional Whitening Session? 

During a professional whitening session, a dentist carefully applies a high-concentration bleaching agent to your teeth for even and consistent whitening. Some treatments also incorporate a specialized light or laser to activate the whitening gel, accelerating the process and enhancing the final results. This combination of techniques can brighten your teeth by up to 8 shades in a single visit, leaving you with a dramatically whiter smile. 

How Long Do the Results Last? 

The effects can last 2 to 3 years with proper oral hygiene, giving you a long-term confidence boost. 

Why Choose Lane Family Dentistry for Teeth Whitening? 

At Lane Family Dentistry, we take pride in offering safe, effective, and comfortable teeth whitening services that deliver exceptional results. Our experienced team will guide you through the process and ensure the treatment is customized to your unique goals. 

If you're ready to transform your smile, visit our teeth whitening page to learn more about our professional options and schedule your appointment today!

Supporting Oral Health for a Longer-Lasting White Smile

Whitening your teeth is just one part of the equation. To maintain those bright results, you need to commit to consistent oral health habits and small lifestyle changes to protect your smile.

Brush and Floss Regularly 

Start by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with a whitening or fluoride toothpaste to remove surface stains and strengthen enamel. Floss daily to clean those hard-to-reach areas between your teeth and prevent plaque buildup, which can lead to discoloration over time. Adding an antiseptic mouthwash to your routine not only helps eliminate bacteria but also provides an extra layer of protection for your enamel. 

Stay Hydrated to Protect Your Smile 

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day, particularly after meals, can wash away staining agents from the food and drinks you consume. This simple habit helps keep your teeth cleaner and reduces the impact of acidic or pigmented substances that can dull your smile. 

Avoid Staining Habits 

It’s just as important to avoid habits that lead to discoloration. Try to limit your intake of dark beverages like coffee, tea, cola, or red wine, which are notorious for staining teeth. If you do enjoy these drinks, use a straw when possible or rinse your mouth with water right after to minimize staining. For smokers, quitting is a key step—not only to protect the brightness of your teeth but also to improve your overall oral and physical health. Smoking contributes significantly to yellowing teeth, bad breath, and severe gum issues. 

Visit Your Dentist Regularly 

Additionally, consider regular dental check-ups and cleanings to maintain your oral health and catch any issues early. Your dentist can also offer professional advice or treatments to help extend the life of your whiter smile. 

Small Changes Make a Big Difference 

Small daily habits and minor lifestyle adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining your brighter, whiter smile for the long term. Healthy teeth are not just about aesthetics—they’re a reflection of your overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions About Teeth Whitening

What is the safest way to whiten teeth?

The safest way to whiten teeth is under the supervision of a dentist using professional-grade treatments. These procedures reduce the risk of damage to your enamel and gums. Over-the-counter whitening kits and natural remedies, when used correctly and in moderation, are also safe options.

How long does teeth whitening last?

The results of teeth whitening depend on your lifestyle and oral hygiene. Professional treatments often last between 1 and 3 years, assuming you avoid staining foods, drink plenty of water, and follow good brushing and flossing habits.

At Lane Family Dentistry, we strive to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted. Whether you're exploring whitening options or need general dental care, our team is here to guide you every step of the way. To book a consultation, please contact us.

Many people wish their teeth were whiter. After all, who doesn’t want a gleaming, megawatt smile? So it’s no surprise that teeth whitening is the top cosmetic dentistry procedure most individuals request. But with so many products claiming to whiten your teeth, how do you know if the products really will work? Or, is professional in-office whitening at a dentist right for you? 

Talk with Your Dentist

Your best source for information about teeth whitening will be your dentist. That’s because not all whitening products or treatments will work well for everyone. Your dentist will know which treatment to recommend based on the type of stains and discoloration you wish to lighten.

Your dentist will also be extremely helpful in helping you choose the best whitening product or treatment based on the presence of dental restorations, such as crowns, or bridges. Because crowns and bridges will not whiten with whitening toothpaste, gels, or mouthwashes, you’ll want to get advice from your dentist on what steps you need to take to get a brighter, whiter smile.

Use Professional Strength Whiteners

Many people don’t get the results they want from whitening strips they buy in the store or online. These products aren’t professional strength, so they don’t offer the same, powerful whitening capabilities that professional in-office teeth bleaching, or custom-made bleaching trays and professional whitening agents provide. 

In-office teeth bleaching can typically be completed in one hour.  During the treatment, your gums will be protected with gel or a rubber shield. The dentist or hygienist will apply a professional strength bleaching agent to your teeth. You will then have a specialized light placed in front of your mouth, which serves to activate the whitening agent. The entire in-office whitening treatment takes less than an hour, and you’ll leave with brighter, whiter teeth.

Take home teeth whitening treatments also use professional-strength whitening agents. However, you’ll be responsible for whitening at home. If you opt for take-home whitening, an impression of your teeth will be taken, and a custom bleaching tray will be made just for you. You’ll put the gel into the tray and wear it at home, at your leisure in keeping with your dentist’s instructions. 

Alternatives to Teeth Whitening

Unfortunately, not all of the stains on your teeth will be removed as a result of teeth whitening. This is because some types of stains won’t react to the peroxide whitening agents.  Likewise, keep in mind that only natural teeth can be whitened.  Tooth-colored fillings, dental implants, or crowns cannot be whitened. 

Porcelain veneers are one alternative to bleaching that you may consider. If you’re interested in a movie-star smile, veneers may be the way to go. Porcelain veneers result in a natural-looking, bright white smile. Veneers can also be used to cover gaps in teeth, uneven lengths of teeth, and give you perfectly shaped teeth. Veneers are more expensive than any form of teeth bleaching, but they can give you a brilliantly white smile.

Schedule a Consultation for Teeth Whitening in Vilonia

If you’re ready for a brighter smile in as little as one office visit, contact Lane Family Dentistry in Vilonia today. Our full-service dental practice provides teeth whitening along with other cosmetic dentistry services, and restorative dentistry treatments. Request an appointment or call 501-796-3903 today. 

Teeth whitening strips have surged in popularity as an at-home solution for people wanting a brighter smile. But do they actually provide the dramatic whitening they claim?

In this article, we separate myth from fact to uncover the truth about whitening strips. Whether you're new to teeth whitening or a pro, we all desire a glowing, beautiful smile.

How do teeth whitening strips work?

Teeth whitening strips typically utilize hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as their active ingredients, playing an instrumental role in the bleaching process by breaking down into oxygen and water upon contact with teeth, then penetrating enamel and dentin layers for deep stain removal and discoloration reduction.

Peroxide's oxidizing action targets discolored molecules within teeth to lighten them, while oxygen molecules released by whitening gel react with discoloring compounds, breaking down their formation and thus effectively whitening your smile.

Repeated use can produce significant improvement in tooth brightness and the overall aesthetics of your smile.

Flexible strips conform to the shape of your teeth to ensure uniform gel contact with the enamel, leading to consistent whitening across your entire smile.

While strips may help remove surface stains and lighten teeth, they may not address specific discolorations due to trauma or medication use. In such instances, it's wise to consult a dentist and explore additional treatment options available to you.

Are teeth whitening strips effective?

The effectiveness of teeth whitening strips relies on several key factors - the extent of discoloration, frequency of use, and how closely you follow the instructions. With consistent, long-term use as directed, strips can successfully lighten tooth shade and reduce surface stains.

However, the degree of whitening varies from person to person. Those with deep-set or stubborn stains may need to use strips more often or for longer to see results.

Lifestyle choices also impact effectiveness. Stain-causing foods and drinks like coffee, tea, and red wine can re-stain and diminish results. Maintaining good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing helps preserve a whiter smile.

In-office professional treatments offer faster, more dramatic whitening. But with proper use over time, strips can provide noticeable lightening for many people. It's important to manage expectations when using them.

Alternative teeth whitening methods

While popular, teeth whitening strips are not the only option for brightening your smile. Whitening toothpaste with polishing agents can help remove surface stains and gently lighten over time.

Whitening trays or kits are another option. These use custom-fitted trays worn over your teeth with whitening gel applied inside. This allows precise gel contact for those with specific whitening needs.

For fast, dramatic whitening, in-office procedures performed by dentists are available. These supervised professional treatments can use stronger agents for more noticeable results.

For severe or complex discoloration not treatable by regular whitening methods, cosmetic options like veneers or dental bonding may be recommended.

The optimal teeth whitening approach is unique to your dental situation and goals. Consulting a dentist can help explore suitable choices beyond strips. Whether trays, professional whitening, or cosmetic dentistry, we can tailor solutions to enhance your smile.

Teeth Whitening in Vilonia, AR

While not a miracle solution, teeth whitening strips can noticeably brighten your smile when used correctly. With a dentist's guidance, they can be a useful tool for achieving your ideal smile.

Whitening is well-suited for those with surface stain discoloration and healthy, thick enamel. But it may not be right for everyone.

Schedule a consultation to see if strips are the best whitening option for you. If not, alternatives like veneers or bonding may better achieve your perfect smile.

Even if whitening isn't recommended, we provide customized treatments tailored to your unique dental needs. With personalized care and the right solution for you, we can reveal a stunning, show-stopping smile you'll absolutely love.

Contact us today at 501-796-3903.

FAQs

How long do teeth whitening strip results last?

Results from teeth whitening strips are not permanent. Depending on factors like your diet and oral hygiene, the whitening effects of strips can last from a few months up to a year. Avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks and maintaining good brushing and flossing habits can help preserve results.

 Are teeth whitening strips safe?

When used as directed, teeth whitening strips are generally safe. The American Dental Association has approved many over-the-counter strip products as safe and effective. It's important to follow instructions carefully, not overuse strips, and check for sensitivities. Consulting a dentist first is recommended, especially if you have dental work like fillings or crowns.

Veneers are a popular and effective option for enhancing the appearance of your teeth, giving you a beautiful, natural-looking smile. If you’re considering improving your smile with veneers, you may wonder how long they last. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the factors that influence how long veneers last and measures you can take to increase their lifespan.

What are Veneers?

Veneers are thin shells made of either composite material or porcelain and applied to the front of a tooth to enhance its appearance. Veneers are custom-made and help improve the color, shape, size, and overall look of teeth. They also hide discoloration, chips, or gaps between teeth. Veneers are durable and can last for many years with proper care.

Composite Veneers vs Porcelain Veneers

When considering veneers, understanding the differences between composite veneers and porcelain veneers is important. Composite veneers have a shorter lifespan than other types of veneers, with an average of three years. They are also more likely to stain over time and aren’t as durable as other options.

 

On the other hand, porcelain veneers have excellent durability and can potentially last 10 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Porcelain veneers are also less likely to stain and can be tailored to match the color of your teeth for a natural look. However, they are more expensive than composite veneers and require a longer application process.

Tips For Long-Lasting Veneers

Veneers are an excellent way to give yourself a beautiful and long-lasting smile. Here are some tips to help you ensure your veneers last as long as possible.

• Choose a high-quality material: Porcelain is the most durable material for veneers, although composite resin may also be used. Porcelain veneers typically last longer than composite resin veneers, so it’s important to choose a material that best suits your lifestyle and budget.
• Practice good oral hygiene: Brushing twice a day and flossing at least once per day helps keep your veneers clean and free from bacteria and plaque. Additionally, you should have your teeth cleaned professionally at least twice a year.
• Avoid staining products: Drinks such as coffee, tea, wine, and soda may stain your veneers. If you do consume these products, make sure to brush your teeth afterward or rinse your mouth with water to remove any residue.
• Avoid chewing on hard objects: Biting down on hard objects like pens, pencils, or ice could cause chips in your veneers.
• Be aware of the impact of teeth grinding or clenching: Teeth grinding or clenching wears down the edges of your veneers over time, so address this issue before getting veneers.

Veneers in Vilonia, AR

If you are in search of quality veneers in Vilonia, AR, look no further than Lane Family Dentistry. Our experienced dental professionals at Lane Family Dentistry offer both composite and porcelain veneers and can help you decide which is best for you. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact Lane Family Dentistry today by calling 501-796-3903 or request an appointment online.

Dental implants are the highest quality tooth replacement option available in dentistry. They provide a natural look and function that can last a lifetime. If you have one or more teeth that are missing or need to be extracted due to severe decay or damage, dental implants are a worthwhile consideration.

 

If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, you may be wondering about the cost. Here’s what you can expect in terms of the estimated cost of dental implants in Vilonia, Arkansas.

 

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the jaw bone. It is made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone to form a solid bond. Once the implant is securely bonded, an abutment and crown are attached to complete your restoration. When multiple or all of the teeth need to be replaced, dental implants can support a bridge or dentures.

 

Average Cost of Dental Implants

The cost of dental implants varies greatly. A single dental implant can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $7,000. Why is there such a wide range? Because there are a variety of factors that have an impact on the cost of the entire procedure.

 

Factors That Affect the Cost of Dental Implants 

The following factors will affect the estimate you may receive for dental implants:

 

• Number of implants. The cost of dental implants is on a per implant basis, meaning that each additional implant will increase the total cost.

• Quality of materials. The material that your prosthetic is made of will affect the cost. A high quality porcelain crown, bridge, or denture will cost more than other materials because it offers the most durability and a natural look.

• Insurance. In many cases dental insurance doesn’t cover dental implants. However, if you happen to have a plan that does, it will help reduce your out of pocket cost.

• Location of the dental practice. The geographic location of your dentist’s office will affect the cost of dental implants because they reflect the cost of living in the area. A practice in a large city may quote you a higher price than a small town practice.

• Experience and reputation of the practice. A dental office with a highly qualified, experienced dentist and good reputation may charge higher prices for their services. But it may be worth paying more to increase the chances that your dental implant will be a success.

• Preparatory procedures. Not every patient is a candidate for dental implants at the time of the first evaluation. If there is loss of bone structure in the jaw where a tooth has been missing, a dental implant cannot be placed without preparation. A bone graft may need to be performed first to solidify and regenerate the bone tissue so that a dental implant can be placed. This additional procedure will increase the overall cost of getting dental implants.

 

Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?

Only you can decide whether or not dental implants are worth the cost. But keep in mind that getting dental implants is an investment in your dental health for the rest of your life. Once a dental implant is in place, it can last a lifetime, providing a fully functional replacement that looks natural. The only part that may need to be replaced later is the prosthetic attached to the implant if it wears out or becomes damaged. Replacing the prosthetic portion comes at a significantly lower cost than the initial cost of the implant.

 

Lane Family Dentistry Provides Dental Implants

We would be happy to schedule a consultation to discuss whether or not dental implants are the right tooth replacement option for you. After a brief evaluation where we assess your current dental health and bone structure of your jaw, we can make a recommendation. We use cutting edge technology for dental implant evaluations and placement to ensure success and make the procedure as minimally invasive as possible.

Call 501-796-3903 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Do you want a brighter smile? When teeth begin to look dull or discolored, it can make your smile less appealing. It’s normal for teeth to gradually yellow over time due to stains from foods and drinks and from a general thinning of the enamel that occurs with age. But professional teeth whitening treatment can remove stains and whiten your teeth for a better looking smile.

 

If you’re considering whitening your teeth, you may have some questions about it, such as how it works. Here’s what you can expect from teeth whitening treatment.

 

Over the Counter Teeth Whitening

There are many teeth whitening products you can buy at the store or order online that claim to dramatically whiten your teeth. These products typically contain hydrogen peroxide and sometimes baking soda. The peroxide bleaches the teeth and the baking soda scrubs away surface stains. But whitening toothpaste, mouthwash, and even whitening strips only provide minimal results that quickly fade.

 

In-Office Professional Teeth Whitening

Professional teeth whitening provided by your dentist can be applied during a single in-office treatment. Dental office treatments contain carbamide peroxide, a stronger bleaching agent that provides dramatic results in just one application. Although it is stronger, carbamide peroxide is safe on tooth enamel. Some patients experience mild sensitivity that fades over time, but there is no damage to the teeth.

 

The Professional Whitening Procedure

When you go to your dentist for teeth whitening treatment, the following steps will occur: 

• Teeth cleaning. Teeth whitening is most effective on clean, polished teeth. Your teeth will be thoroughly cleaned and polished to be smooth before whitening treatment is applied.

• Gum protection. A protective gel or a rubber shield will be applied to your gums to protect the soft tissue from irritation from the whitening agent.

• Whitening agent is applied. The whitening treatment is applied to each tooth carefully and evenly for uniform results across all of the teeth.

• Light activates whitening agent. A specialized light is used to activate the whitening agent to accelerate the process.

 

How Long Do Results Last?

The results from professional teeth whitening can last around a year. The results from over the counter products may last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, requiring you to purchase more and repeat the treatment to maintain your results. Store bought products may seem cheaper than professional treatment at first, but if you are repeatedly purchasing these products it can really add up. You may end up paying less overall for professional teeth whitening and get better results.

 

How To Keep Your Teeth Looking White

After getting professional teeth whitening treatment, you want your results to last as long as possible. Here are some tips for keeping teeth looking white for longer:

• Use a Touch-up Kit. Many professional teeth whitening treatments come with a touch-up kit for use at home. This allows you to periodically freshen up your results so that your teeth look whiter for longer.

• Watch what you eat and drink. Avoid foods and beverages that are known to stain teeth, such as coffee, tea, red wine, dark berries, chocolate, soy sauce, tomato sauce, and foods with artificial coloring.

• Brush your teeth twice a day. Keeping your teeth clean will help them stay white. Brush your teeth twice a day to remove food residue and plaque. If you do eat or drink something that may stain your teeth, brush your teeth immediately afterwards.

• Go to the dentist every 6 months. Routine dental cleanings should occur every 6 months for your dental health as well as the appearance of your teeth. Dental cleanings remove plaque and polish your teeth for a smoother appearance that is less likely to develop stains.

 

Where Can I Get Professional Teeth Whitening?

If you want to improve your smile, Lane Dentistry provides professional teeth whitening treatment in our office. With just one treatment you’ll see dramatic results that last longer than over the counter whitening products. You’ll even save money when you stop buying whitening products at the store.

Call 501-796-3903 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.

Have you noticed your teeth looking a bit yellow or discolored lately? You may see it when you look in the mirror or when you see a picture of yourself with others and you notice that everyone’s smile is whiter than yours. 

Gradual discoloration of the teeth is normal, but there is something you can do about it. There are a variety of ways to whiten teeth, but professional whitening treatment has proven to be the most effective. Whitening toothpaste or bleaching strips may get your teeth a few shades whiter. But for dramatic results you can really see, professional treatment is best. 

If you’re considering professional teeth whitening, you may have some questions such as how much it costs and how long it lasts. Learn how much teeth whitening costs in Vilonia, Arkansas and more about the treatment. 

Average Cost of Professional Teeth Whitening

The cost of professional teeth whitening may vary, but on average you can expect to pay anywhere from $100-$150 for at-home whitening kits provided by your dentist and $150-$200 for in-office whitening treatment. At-home whitening typically includes a custom made tray that fits your teeth for applying whitening treatment. In-office whitening is typically a one time treatment applied by your dentist in their office. 

Factors That Affect the Cost

The cost of whitening treatment varies based on a variety of factors: 

• Type of treatment. In-office whitening typically costs more than at-home whitening kits because your dentist takes the time to apply and activate the bleaching agent. At-home whitening is done on your own time so it typically costs less. 

• Your dentist’s pricing. Dental practices vary in pricing when it comes to teeth whitening treatment. One dentist may charge more than another based on the market cost of the treatment and the time it takes to apply or to create custom trays. 

• Brand of whitening treatment. There are a few different brands of professional grade whitening treatments and they vary in cost. The brand your dentist offers will affect the cost of the treatment. 

• Geographic location. As you know, cost of living varies from place to place and affects the cost of most things, including cosmetic dentistry procedures. You may find higher prices for teeth whitening in cities and densely populated areas than in rural areas and small towns. 

 

Is Professional Teeth Whitening Worth It? 

Whether or not professional teeth whitening treatment is worth the cost is a decision only you can make. But there are some things to consider: 

• Effectiveness. If you want the most effective teeth whitening treatment, professional whitening is worth it. You’ll get noticeably whiter teeth in just one in-office treatment or in a few weeks of at-home treatments. Cheaper store-bought whitening products may whiten your teeth slightly, but the results won’t be as dramatic. 

• How long the results last. Professional whitening treatment lasts longer than store-bought products as well. In-office treatment can last anywhere from 1-3 years and at-home professional grade treatment can last an average of 6-8 months. Store-bought products may only last 2-4 months at the most, meaning you’ll need to purchase more and repeat the process more frequently. This can add up to the cost of professional treatment quickly, but with more work on your part and inferior results. 

• Condition of your teeth. Whitening treatments work best on teeth that are healthy and look healthy. Applying whitening to teeth that need restorative or cosmetic procedures is not recommended. Restorative procedures, such as cavity fillings, should be done first before cosmetic procedures. If your teeth are crooked, uneven, chipped, or otherwise damaged, whitening treatment may not be able to give you the smile you desire. Veneers may be a better option to conceal cosmetic imperfections in your teeth. 

 

Lane Family Dentistry Provides Teeth Whitening Treatment 

If you want a whiter smile, Lane Family Dentistry provides professional teeth whitening treatment. For best results we recommend our in-office whitening treatment. With just one application you can have dramatically whiter teeth to enhance your natural smile. 

To learn more, call 501-796-3903 or contact us today to schedule an appointment.