What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?

Posted by Dr. Richard Sellen Jun 11,2021

With pandemic restrictions starting to lift, people are beginning to feel more comfortable taking their masks off (only when it’s safe, of course!). After nearly 15 months of covering up our mouths, we’re finally going to be showing off our pearly whites once again.

But what if your teeth aren’t as bright and sparkly as they were before COVID? That’s where teeth whitening comes into play.

These days, there are plenty of options when it comes to effective and convenient teeth whitening. Let’s take a look at the big three.

1. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Teeth Whitening

These are the teeth whiteners that are available in your local pharmacy, supermarket, etc. OTC teeth whiteners are good for mild external staining from things like coffee, tea, and foods that can leave stains (like blueberries).

OTC whiteners can be broken into 3 sub-categories: toothpastes, mouthwashes, and strips.

Whitening toothpastes work by using small abrasive particles that “scrub” the stains off your teeth. An easy way to think about this is by comparing it to exfoliation. Toothpastes are great because they’re easy to incorporate into your daily routine, since you are already brushing your teeth twice a day (we hope!). The main downside, however, is that certain people have found that the toothpastes can be too abrasive. We generally don’t recommend whitening toothpastes to patients who have recession or root exposure because it can create sensitivity or even start stripping away root structure. Also, if the staining is more of an internal issue (meaning the actual tooth structure has darkened), toothpastes can be ineffective.

Whitening mouthwashes, like toothpastes, are only good for mild cases. The majority of mouthwashes utilize hydrogen peroxide as the bleaching agent. Due to the fact that these mouthwashes have minimal contact time with the tooth, it can take a good amount of time to notice any significant whitening in your teeth.

Finally, whitening strips tend to be the most effective OTC solution. These strips work by lightening the actual tooth structure. Better yet, they’re easy to find in stores and relatively cost effective. The downside to strips is that they can cause temporary tooth sensitivity that can range in intensity depending on the health of your teeth. Also, these strips are usually “one size fits all,” which means they aren’t custom-made for your unique tooth and gum structure. As a result, they can either not cover your teeth enough or cover so much that they also touch your gums. This can irritate or even damage your gum tissue.

2. In-Office Treatments

In-office teeth whitening treatments usually last about an hour and consist of a bleaching agent and placement of a light on the teeth. The results are immediate, but we believe one of the reasons for this is because in-office treatments usually dry the teeth out. As your teeth rehydrate post-treatment, it’s not uncommon for the bleaching effect to become less noticeable.

3. Custom Bleach Trays for At-Home Use

Custom bleaching trays are tailor-made to fit your teeth and your teeth only. They serve as a fully-custom delivery agent for the bleaching gel and, because they’re made specifically for you, gum irritation is greatly reduced. Another benefit of having a custom whitening tray made for you is that the bleaching method can be adjusted to your needs. These agents come in a variety of concentrations that can be used for different levels of staining and tooth sensitivity. In other words, the more stain on the teeth, the higher the concentration, while more sensitivity in the teeth means less concentration. The best part of the trays is that, if you do happen to notice sensitivity in your teeth while whitening, you can add something as simple as Sensodyne into the trays and wear those for some time after a bleaching session. This will help to mitigate some of the sensitivity.

Feel free to let our staff know if you have any questions about whitening your teeth!

Dr. Richard D. Sellen is a licensed dentist in Willow Glen, San Jose, California. If you are ready for a healthy and beautiful smile, head on over to our contact page or give us a call at 408.264.3133.

The 4 Benefits of Dental Implants

The decision to get dental implants is a big one. After all, this is a procedure that involves surgery and the implantation of metal screws into your jawbone. However, for many people, the benefits of dental implants outweigh the risks. If you are considering dental implants, it is important to understand what they are and how they work. Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are inserted into your jawbone. Once in place, they provide a foundation for a dental crown or bridge. Dental implants can be used to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental implants are a relatively new procedure, and there is some risk involved in having them implanted. However, for most people the benefits far outweigh the risks. So, what are the benefits of dental implants? DENTAL IMPLANTS LOOK AND FEEL MORE NATURAL THAN OTHER OPTIONS When it comes to dental implants, they often look and feel more natural than other options. This is because they are placed directly into the jawbone in order to secure them in place. Additionally, dental implants are often made of biocompatible materials that are designed to mimic the properties of natural teeth. This helps to ensure that they look and feel more natural than other options. DENTAL IMPLANTS ARE PERMANENT One of the best things about dental implants is that they are permanent, as long as the surrounding gum and bone health is taken care of. Unlike dentures, which can come loose and need to be adjusted or replaced often, implants are solidly fixed in your mouth. This means that you can go about your day-to-day life with confidence, knowing that your smile is secure. DENTAL IMPLANTS ARE EASY TO CARE FOR Dental implants are easy to care for and maintain. All you need to do is regularly brush your teeth and floss them, just like you would with your natural teeth. You may also need to rinse your mouth with a fluoride mouthwash. Regular checkups with your dentist will allow them to monitor your implant’s health and keep them looking and performing their best for years to come! DENTAL IMPLANTS LET YOU EAT WHAT YOU WANT Dental implants let you eat what you want because they are permanently anchored in your jawbone. Unlike dentures, which can become loose and require adhesives to keep them in place, dental implants do not move around inside your mouth. This means that you can enjoy crunchy apples and sticky candy bars without having to worry about them slipping out of your teeth.

Happy New Year 2023!

As we look ahead to the new year, it’s a time for reflection and goal setting. For many of us, this includes improving our dental health. Here at the office of Richard D. Sellen, DDS, we are committed to helping you achieve your oral health goals in the upcoming year. We understand that proper dental care can be intimidating or inconvenient, so we strive to create an environment where patients feel comfortable and informed, while receiving quality service from our experienced team of professionals. We also offer convenient payment plans and financing options to make sure everyone has access to the care they need. In addition to providing excellent preventative services such as cleanings, exams, and digital x-rays, we also provide restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and bridges; orthodontic treatments including Invisalign®; cosmetic dentistry such as teeth whitening; implant surgery; periodontal therapy; and much more! As you enter 2023 with renewed enthusiasm for your oral health journey, we’re here for you every step of the way! Let us know how we can help make achieving your smile goals easier this coming year. Contact us today for more information about any of our services or special offers. Happy New Year from all of us at Richard D. Sellen, DDS, wishing you a healthy, happy smile in 2023!

The 3 Major Benefits of Cerec Milling

We recently added a Cerec milling unit in our office and felt this would be a great time to tell you all about it and what makes it so great! If you’re looking for a dental restoration that’s both beautiful and durable, Cerec milling may be the perfect option for you. This technology uses CAD/CAM software to create dental restorations from a single block of ceramic material, allowing dentists to create crowns, bridges, and other dental restorations right in their office. In this article, we will discuss these benefits in more detail and explore why Cerec milling is becoming increasingly popular among dentists and patients alike. 1. IT’S EFFICIENT One of the biggest benefits of Cerec milling is that it’s extremely efficient. Traditional dental crowns require multiple visits to the dentist and can take weeks to complete. With Cerec milling, however, the entire process can be completed in a single visit, which means that you won’t have to come back for a second appointment to get your restoration placed. 2. IT’S ACCURATE One of the biggest benefits of Cerec milling is its accuracy. This technology allows dentists to create dental restorations that are much more precise than those made using traditional methods. This means that your restoration will fit more snugly and securely in your mouth, providing you with a better overall result. 3. IT’S INCREDIBLY DURABLE One of the biggest benefits of Cerec milling is that it’s very strong and durable. Unlike traditional dental restorations, which are made from porcelain or other materials that can chip and break over time, Cerec restorations are made from a single block of ceramic material. This makes them much more resistant to wear and tear, and they should last for many years with proper care. If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, and efficient dental restoration, Cerec milling may be the perfect solution for you. Let us know if you’d like to come in for a visit and see if this technology is right for you. Dr. Richard D. Sellen is a licensed dentist in Willow Glen, San Jose, California. If you are ready for a healthy and beautiful smile, head on over to our contact page or give us a call at 408.264.3133.

Get the Perfect Smile with Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry refers to any dental treatment that improves the appearance of one’s smile. This typically refers to treatments that will enhance the appearance of your teeth, gums, and smile. Some examples of common cosmetic dental treatments include teeth whitening, veneers, bonding, gum reshaping, and more. At Richard D. Sellen, DDS, these procedures are a great way to correct minor aesthetic flaws or boost self-confidence. They also can help to rejuvenate your appearance, helping you look younger and vibrant again. WHAT CAN COSMETIC DENTISTRY FIX? STAINED TEETH Dental bonding and teeth whitening are the most common procedures to help patients address their discolored teeth, but porcelain veneers are also an option. Veneers are thin shells of medical-grade ceramic that bond directly to the front surfaces of the teeth to improve their appearance. Porcelain is naturally white, reflecting light similarly to your natural tooth enamel for a natural-looking effect. DISCOLORED TEETH Professional teeth whitening can brighten your smile and give you a more youthful look if you have discolored or stained teeth. Teeth whitening is an excellent option for patients who have healthy teeth and gums but are unhappy with the color of their teeth. CHIPPED TEETH If you have small chips on your teeth, you no longer have to live with them! We can repair chips and cracks in just a few visits thanks to modern cosmetic procedures such as cosmetic bonding and porcelain veneers. The tooth-colored resin bonded to your tooth is shaped to look like your natural enamel, and it will blend right in with the rest of your smile. Tooth bonding doesn’t last as long as other forms of restoration, but it is usually less expensive. It’s an excellent option for minor repairs or if you’re looking to touch up your smile. THE ADVANTAGES OF COSMETIC DENTISTRY IMPROVED CONFIDENCE Patients who struggle with imperfections in their teeth can feel embarrassed and self-conscious about their appearance. By undergoing cosmetic dentistry to improve the look of their smile, patients can regain their confidence and even look younger. EASIER EATING Teeth that are crooked, stained, or gapped can make chewing food difficult and even painful in some cases. When teeth are corrected through cosmetic dentistry procedures, it is much easier for patients to bite and chew their food comfortably. BETTER ORAL HEALTH Many cosmetic dental procedures are performed to protect the health of a tooth. For example, fillings are used to repair existing decay and prevent further damage from occurring. As a result, patients who undergo cosmetic care can also enjoy improved oral health. Cosmetic dentistry is designed to improve the appearance of teeth and enhance a smile. To learn more about the benefits of cosmetic dentistry, visit Richard D. Sellen, DDS, at 1600 Willow St #150, San Jose, CA 95125, or call (408) 264-3133. We look forward to improving your oral health and overall appearance with our comprehensive range of cosmetic and general dentistry services.

The 4 Common Types of Dental Restorations

When it comes to our oral health, we often think about brushing and flossing our teeth regularly. However, there are other aspects of oral health that are important as well, such as dental restorations. Restorative dentistry is the process of repairing and restoring teeth that have been damaged or lost. This can be done through a variety of methods, including dental implants, dentures, and crowns. There are many reasons why someone might need restorative dentistry. Teeth can become damaged due to a number of factors, such as decay, infection, or trauma. They can also be lost due to injury or gum disease. Dental restorations can also help improve oral health overall. Damaged or missing teeth can put strain on the rest of the teeth, which can lead to further damage. Dental restoration can help restore balance to the mouth and protect against further damage. There are four common types of dental restorations: dental implants, dentures, crowns, and bridges. Let’s take a closer look at each one. 1. DENTAL IMPLANTS Dental implants are artificial roots that are placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthetic. They are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone over time. This helps to create a strong and stable foundation for the dental prosthetic. Dental implants can be used to support a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth. 2. DENTURES Dentures are removable dental prosthetics that replace missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit snugly over the gums. Dentures can be full or partial, depending on how many teeth are missing. They are typically made of acrylic or can have a metal base with acrylic over it. 3. CROWNS Crowns are dental prosthetics that cover the entire surface of a tooth. They are used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged or lost. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, metal, or composite resin. 4. BRIDGES Bridges are dental prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (called pontics) that are supported by dental crowns. The dental crowns are placed over the natural teeth adjacent to the space created by the missing tooth (or teeth). Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, or metal. Dental restoration can help to improve the function and appearance of your teeth. It is important to discuss your options with a dental professional to find the best solution for you. Dr. Richard D. Sellen is a licensed dentist in Willow Glen, San Jose, California. If you are ready for a healthy and beautiful smile, head on over to our contact page or give us a call at 408.264.3133

What Are Your Teeth Whitening Options?