Tired of dull, yellowed tooth enamel? Many patients of Dr. Raymond A. Della Porta in Vero Beach, FL wish to brighten their tooth color safely and quickly. As such, Dr. Della Porta offers professional teeth whitening--specifically in-office Zoom! and take-home Nite White--as part of his extensive menu of cosmetic dental services.

Dr. Della Porta and his staff have compiled a list of frequently asked questions regarding teeth whitening so patients can make informed decisions about aesthetic dental goals.

FAQs about Teeth Whitening

How do teeth become discolored? Teeth stain because of smoking, dark-colored foods and beverages (such as blueberries and coffee). Some prescription drugs and the aging process also cause enamel to thin and to yellow. Most commonly, food particles attach to the mineral matrix we call tooth enamel. This organic matter creates stains, and often brushing and flossing cannot remove them.

What is the active ingredient in teeth whitening gels? Your Vero Beach dentist uses professional-grade whitening gels with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as the active bleaching ingredients. The peroxide lifts out organic material trapped in tooth enamel, allowing the natural, brighter color to show. While many over the counter whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide, they are not concentrated enough to yield lasting results.

Who can get teeth whitening?

Many adults and older teens get their teeth whitened professionally. Dr. Della Porta performs a careful oral exam before recommending Vero Beach teeth whitening or any cosmetic dental service. Ideal candidates are free from decay, gum disease, and extensive restorations, such as fillings.

Can I do teeth whitening at home?

Yes, you can whiten your teeth at home. Dr. Della Porta offers in-office Zoom! teeth whitening for brighter teeth in about an hour. But he also has an at-home option: Nite White whitening. Just like Zoom! whitening, Nite White uses peroxide gel, but it is less concentrated and more gradual than the Zoom! bleaching agent.

At home, the patient applies the gel daily using custom-made trays that fit snugly over the teeth. By wearing the trays for the prescribed time daily, they can achieve color change of up to 10 shades brighter in a week or two.

Are there side effects?

Some individuals experience teeth sensitivity that quickly resolves. However, because the whitening process is supervised by Dr. Della Porta and his team, this side effect is very mild.

How long will whitening last?

With good oral hygiene and professional cleanings every 6 months with Dr. Della Porta, a whitened smile stays bright indefinitely. Occasional at-home touch-ups help, as do:

• quitting smoking
• brushing twice a day and flossing daily as advised by the American Dental Association
• limiting staining foods and beverages in your diet

Find Out More

That white, youthful smile could be yours. Consult the expertise of Dr. Raymond A. Della Porta II, DMD. A masters level graduate of Aesthetic Advantage for Aesthetic Dentistry and Porcelain Veneers, Dr. Della Porta will guide you toward your best oral health and cosmetic goals. Call (772) 567-1025 for a personal consultation in Vero Beach, FL.