03
Jan
Three of the safest ways to whiten your teeth
For many of our patients in San Jose, California, a whiter, brighter smile is their ultimate goal. Once the teeth and gums are healthy, cosmetic treatments such as teeth whitening can be considered. Whiter teeth can make patients look 5-10 years younger! Dr. Natalie Provenzano works with men and women to educate them on effective, safe, and affordable methods of whitening.
Three of the safest ways to whiten your teeth
- Whitening strips are available over the counter. At most drugstores and retail locations, patients can pick up whitening strips in the oral care aisle. These strips usually contain a peroxide-based gel that is applied to the teeth for a certain amount of time, typically around 30 minutes. This method is generally both safe and effective when used as directed.
- Whitening toothpaste. Whitening toothpaste can be obtained at most retail places and online. These toothpastes contain very mild abrasives that help remove surface stains on the teeth. However, they are not as effective at removing deeper stains and should be used with other whitening methods for the best results.
- Professional teeth whitening at the dentist’s office. Another safe and effective way to whiten teeth is by getting professional treatment at your dentist’s office. Dr. Natalie Provenzano is excited to offer professional whitening kits that use a stronger concentration of peroxide-based gels than over-the-counter products. They also have special anti-sensitivity ingredients to reduce the temporary sensitivity that whitening gels may cause. We offer two different concentrations of whitening gel, to tailor to the patient’s individual needs. Custom trays are made for the patient in the office that will allow home whitening and touch-up treatments for many years.
What are some ways to maintain my whiter, brighter smile?
There are a few things you can do to help not only whiten the teeth, but keep the teeth whiter for longer:
- Good oral hygiene habits. One of the most important things is to practice good oral hygiene habits daily by brushing and flossing regularly. This helps to remove plaque and prevent surface stains from building up on the teeth.
- Avoid staining products. Certain foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits, commonly known to stain teeth, can also help maintain a whiter smile. If you do consume these items, make sure you rinse your mouth with water afterward.
- Use a straw. Another tip is to use a straw when drinking beverages that may stain the teeth. This minimizes the amount of contact between the liquids and your teeth.
- Routine dental cleanings. Scheduling regular dental cleanings with your dentist can also help keep your teeth white. Professional cleanings can remove any surface stains and plaque buildup that may have accumulated since your last visit.
- Touch-up treatments. If your teeth are becoming less brilliant, touch-up procedures help you preserve your results. Professional whitening kits can complete this with one or two applications at home with your custom whitening trays.
Who can I call to learn more about whitening my smile?
Dr. Natalie Provenzano of San Jose, California, works with patients to help them achieve their most brilliant and beautiful smiles! If you are curious about the safest ways to whiten teeth, call (408) 226-2542 to request an upcoming visit with our dedicated dental team at 6020 Hellyer Avenue, Suite #100.
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Dr. Or Simel
Dr. Natalie Provenzano has been practicing dentistry since 2002 when she graduated from the University of Southern California Dental School in the class’ top 10. She served on the school’s ethics committee and was a member of the Oral Sedation Team and the National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon. She also received the American Association of Women Dentists’ Female Dentist of the Year Award.
Also an alumnus of Loyola Marymount University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Biology, Dr. Provenzano was an active member of Ignatians Service Organization and Delta Gamma Fraternity and was chosen for the Order of Omega and Delta Sigma Nu Honor Societies.
Oral surgeon Dr. Or Simel has been practicing dentistry since 2009. He is a graduate of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) School of Dentistry (DDS), UCSF School of Medicine (MD), Loyola Marymount University, Los Angeles, CA, (BS/Biology), and UCSF School of Dentistry (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery). He graduated Summa Cum Laude and was on the Dean’s List, and National Dental Honor Society, Omicron Kappa Upsilon.
He is a member of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, American Dental Association, and California Dental Association.
Together, they provide exceptional general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry to patients of all ages in the area.