Teeth Whitening for Smokers: Is It Effective?
Smoking can negatively impact your body in many ways, and that includes your oral health. Aside from its effect on your gum health and oral tissues, smoking also causes teeth staining. Over time, these stains become so stubborn that they can’t be removed with brushing alone. So, can professional teeth whitening work for smokers? Yes, it can, but it depends on certain factors. Keep reading.
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Why Does Smoking Cause Stains on Teeth?
When you smoke, your teeth get exposed to nicotine, tar, and other chemicals in cigarettes. Although nicotine itself is colorless, after mixing with oxygen, it turns yellow and sticks to the enamel.
On the other hand, tar is naturally dark and leaves dark stains on your teeth. These stains don’t appear within a day. Instead, they become more noticeable over months or years.
If you smoke too frequently, these substances can affect deeper layers of the tooth structure over time, causing discoloration that’s very hard to remove with whitening toothpastes or other products. In this case, professional teeth whitening is a commonly recommended option for smoking or tobacco stains.
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Does Teeth Whitening Work for Smokers?
The simple answer? Yes, smokers can get professional teeth whitening to improve the appearance of their smile. However, the effectiveness of your treatment depends on the depth of stains and whether you choose to continue smoking afterward.
Before considering this treatment, your dentist will evaluate your oral health in detail. Smoking not only discolors your teeth but also has an impact on your gum health. So dentists examine all factors to make sure the whitening treatment is safe for you.
What Can You Expect From the Treatment?
There are different types of teeth whitening, and your dentist will choose which type will work best for you.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
This is a simple procedure that involves applying a high-strength bleaching gel to your teeth. Dentists make sure your gums remain protected. After applying the gel, they use a special light to activate it.
It lightens smoking stains on your tooth surfaces in as little as one appointment, making your teeth look whiter than before.
However, very heavy or long-term stains may not be completely removed. For the most effective results, you’ll have to make an effort to reduce or stop smoking.
At-Home Whitening Kits
At-home teeth whitening kits are custom-made for those who want a more convenient option. Along with custom trays, you get a professional-strength whitening gel. It may noticeably lighten surface stains in a single visit.
For smokers with severe staining, dentists suggest a combination of in-office whitening and at-home trays.
Summing Up
Smoking stains are often too stubborn to be removed with brushing alone. In fact, you may be harming your tooth and gum health in the process. Professional teeth whitening is a better option for smokers who want to renew the look of their smile.
So if you’re considering this option, talk to our dentists at Cloud 9 Dental to know what would work best for you. Give us a call at (818) 986-7411 to set up your appointment.