isMobile() ? ($detect->isTablet() ? 'tablet' : 'phone') : 'computer'); $mobile = false; if ($detect->isMobile() || $detect->isTablet()) { $mobile = true; } else { $mobile = false; } ?> FAQs on Cosmetic Dentistry Chicago IL | Big Smile Dental Chicago

"Will bleaching hurt my teeth?" Big Smile Dental explains, debunks FAQs on cosmetic dentistry

Many tooth-related myths circulating on the internet have to do with cosmetic treatments, specifically whitening.

Cosmetic dentistry has never been more popular. For an affordable price, you can make a big difference in the way you look without having to go under the knife or without dramatically altering your appearance. You don't look different, just like a better version of yourself.

As procedures become more popular, you may see more products on the store shelves touting their smile-brightening benefits. It can all be very confusing.

For starters, if you see or hear about a product proclaiming teeth "whitening," that means it is technically designed to get your teeth to their natural color. It doesn't whiten beyond that natural shade. Stronger treatments are known as "bleaching." Both whitening and bleaching have a bad rap, thanks to OTC products, mall kiosks, and "bleaching booths" that, at best, are ineffective or produce minimal improvements and, at worst, can actually irritate your gums.

When used properly as prescribed by a dental professional, these products are proven safe and comfortable. Furthermore, dental professionals can legally offer stronger whitening gels that the booths, drugstores, and kiosks can't. You may find yourself paying a lot of money for so-called professional treatments lacking the strength of the whitening or bleaching agent needed to make a noticeable difference or obtain desired results.

While whitening is, generally a safe procedure, but if you expect professional results, go to a professional. Big Smile Dental can also determine if these types of treatments are actually the best answer to your question of, "How do I improve my lackluster smile?"

You may have darker, intrinsic, or internal stains. These stains are deeper than those lighter brown or yellow stains from coffee or tea that sit at the surface.

Stains that are more stubborn may be dark brown, yellow, or gray, and caused by antibiotics like tetracycline. These stains can't always be treated with whitening or bleaching agents. You may be a better candidate for veneers or dental bonding to cover such discoloration. Existing restorations including crowns must be considered to assure uniform coloring of all teeth.

A brighter smile may be among the most popular dental treatments, but there may be a number of other FAQs on cosmetic dentistry outside of whitening and bleaching. Bring your questions to Big Smile Dental by calling 773-772-8400 to schedule a consultation. Be sure to ask about how you can get bleaching trays free by scheduling a full exam, X-rays and cleaning.