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Over the course of the years, your smile can take on a dull, yellow, or even gray appearance. This could be a natural part of the aging process or it could be the result of drinking dark beverages, eating certain dark foods, and occasionally using tobacco.

While advertised whitening products might seem tempting, most lack the potency or safety to effectively brighten your smile. Before attempting to use any of these products, you should schedule a whitening consultation with Dr. Purvesh Malaviya at his dental office in Brockton, Massachusetts. After a thorough examination, he can help you find the most effective method to safely whiten your teeth.

Brushing your teeth each evening with a retail brand of whitening toothpaste is a convenient way to brighten minor surface stains. However, it’s worth noting that the concentration of whitening agents it uses won’t be potent enough to brighten moderate to deeply stained teeth.

Applying whitening strips to the teeth can also be a convenient way to occasionally remove surface stains. The clear, plastic strips are difficult for the casual observer to even notice you’re wearing them. Yet, just like whitening toothpaste, their topical hydrogen peroxide will only be strong enough to whiten minor surface stains.

It’s important that you always look for the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance when shopping for any of these whitening products. The small logo printed on the packaging signifies that the product has passed rigorous testing to be approved for safe oral use.  

In the case of more significant dental stains, Dr. Purvesh Malaviya can easily administer a dental bleaching treatment. This represents the safest and most effective method for removing stains that have penetrated deep into tooth enamel.

Afterward, Dr. Purvesh Malaviya can then help you identify foods and beverages to limit the staining or can help determine a strategy for maintaining your white smile in the future.

If you live in the Brockton, Massachusetts, area and you need help whitening your smile, you should call 508-588-1400 to schedule a whitening consultation at Creative Smiles Dental Care.