19
May
Questions to Ask Your Dentist About Teeth Whitening
Having your dentist professionally whiten your teeth is a great way to improve the appearance of your smile. You eliminate the mess of trying to complete the procedure at home and walk away with a whiter, brighter smile. Dr. Fitzpatrick and Dr. Trudeau of Del Mar Family Dentistry in Solana Beach, California, offer professional teeth whitening services to all their patients. When you have questions, just schedule an appointment and get the answers you’re looking for.
How often can I get my teeth whitened at the dentist’s office?
While the frequency will vary from patient to patient, most dentists recommend waiting at least six months before having another professional teeth whitening procedure. Bleaching the enamel of the teeth too often can eventually damage your teeth. With proper care, a teeth whitening procedure performed by a dentist will last several months. In some cases, it may last a year or longer. Talk to your dentist and find out what you can do to prolong the results.
Should I still use over-the-counter teeth whitening kits at home?
You can still use over-the-counter teeth whitening kits at home as long as you don’t overdo it. Limit your use to one kit a month or every six weeks. Use a toothpaste that contains whiteners. Brush your teeth twice a day and avoid foods proven to stain or discolor the enamel. Rinse your mouth often. Find out if your dentist offers take-home whitening kits that are designed to be used between professional treatments.
Can I whiten my teeth too often?
Whitening your teeth too often can break down the delicate enamel, making your teeth more sensitive to temperature. Many over-the-counter teeth whitening kits contain harsh abrasives that can wear away the enamel. Ask your dentist how often you should use over-the-counter whitening kits and which ones they recommend. If you have stains that are difficult to remove, your dentist may recommend visiting the office for a professional teeth whitening treatment instead.
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How can I prolong the effects of my teeth whitening treatments?
A professional teeth whitening treatment is meant to last for several months. In addition to using a take-home whitening kit every other month or so, you can use a toothpaste that contains whiteners and bleaching agents. If at all possible, avoid consuming foods and beverages that are known to discolor your teeth. You should also avoid tobacco and vape products as well. Visit your dentist at least once a year for a thorough exam to ensure your teeth are in good condition.
How should I prepare for a professional teeth whitening procedure?
If you have an appointment to get your teeth professionally whitened, avoid eating or drinking anything for an hour or so before your appointment. You should also brush and floss your teeth. Dr. Fitzpatrick and Dr. Trudeau of Del Mar Family Dentistry in Solana Beach, CA, can whiten your teeth professionally in a single visit. If you would like to learn more about the procedure, schedule an appointment with our office. New patients will need to call (858) 360-3102. Existing patients should call (858) 755-9775 at their earliest convenience.Â
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Dr. Dale Trudeau
Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick
Dr. Nikko Johnson
Dr. Erik Balinghasay
Del Mar Family Dentistry is served by four experienced and talented physicians: Drs. Dale Trudeau, Thomas Fitzpatrick, Nikko Johnson, and Erik Balinghasay.
Dr. Dale Trudeau has served the community of Del Mar and Solana Beach since 1984. He is a graduate and former instructor at USC School of Dentistry and has completed many hours of advanced training in restorative, cosmetic, implant dentistry, and Invisalign. He is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), California Dental Association (CDA), San Diego County Dental Society (SDCDS), and American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Dr. Trudeau is active in the community and volunteers at many local charities and youth organizations.
Dr. Thomas Fitzpatrick is a graduate of Point Loma Nazarene University (PLNU) in San Diego and Loma Linda University, School of Dentistry. He is a Research Associate at PLNU, YMCA, and Foundation for Worldwide Health, along with being a member of the ADA, CDA, Academy of General Dentistry (AGD), and SDCDS. Dr. Fitzpatrick has a passion to provide sustainable dental services to underserved communities both locally and globally. In 2013 he founded Cura Coffee Company to help fund the non-profit work of Cura Smiles. This non-profit has been able to build a dental clinic in the diverse community of City Heights, San Diego to help serve the underserved in their dental needs.
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Dr. Nikko Johnson is a graduate of the University of Central Oklahoma and Oklahoma University College of Dentistry. After completing her dental residency, she practiced as a general dentist in Oklahoma and North Carolina before obtaining her Master of Science in Periodontology from the University Of Detroit Mercy School Of Dentistry. Among her competencies are prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of periodontal diseases and treatment modalities with advanced oral plastic surgeries. She has had the honor of providing dental care to veterans for many years.
Dr. Erik Balinghasay is a graduate of the University of California San Diego(UCSD) and University of California Los Angeles(UCLA), School of Dentistry. Upon graduating from UCLA, he pursued advanced speciality training in Endodontics, the dental specialty related to root canals, at the University of Washington in Seattle. He is a Board-Certified Endodontist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Endodontics.