Teeth whitening is a tried and true cosmetic dentistry treatment that works for many people. Find out whether you might be a good candidate for this treatment. Here are some of the most important things to know about this smile makeover procedure:

• Perfect teeth aren’t necessary. Your teeth don’t have to be perfect to qualify for a whitening treatment from your West Bloomfield dentist. A ZOOM! whitening makes teeth look so good they create an illusion of perfection, even if they’re otherwise flawed.
• The results are legendary. When you undergo a professional teeth-whitening treatment, your teeth can be seven to eight times whiter. They will gleam and make you look healthier, happier, and simply better. The results can last for up to three years if you take good care of your teeth and see your dentist regularly.
• Your teeth may not be able to be whitened. Some patients have enamel characteristics that prevent whitening from being an option. If you are born with teeth that are dull in color, their appearance cannot be altered by whitening – the bleach needs something to remove from the teeth to make them brighter. In cases like this, porcelain veneers may be your cosmetic dentist’s recommendation for a complete smile makeover.
• Your enamel may be more susceptible to tooth stains. If you have thin tooth enamel, the yellowish dentin underneath can shine through, making teeth look yellow. Your dentist may be willing to try a treatment if that’s what you want, but teeth like this are more susceptible to tooth stains, even if you have good oral hygiene and professional whitening.
• There are many causes of tooth stains. Brushing and flossing are important, but they aren’t always enough to combat the stains and discoloration that build up on your teeth over time. Drinking coffee and wine and colas, smoking, aging, or taking certain medications can cause a smile to yellow and dull.