Providers

Downtown Dental

General Dentists located in Downtown, Rapid City, SD

Why let stained or discolored teeth dull your smile and make you less likely to show it off? If your teeth aren’t as white and bright as you’d like, visit Michael Krump, DDS, in Rapid City, South Dakota for a teeth whitening procedure that removes stains and makes you want to show off your pearly whites. Call the practice today or use the online booking tool to schedule your teeth whitening appointment.

(605) 342-4882

Teeth Whitening Q&A

How does teeth whitening work?

Downtown Dental uses a professional quality teeth whitening system to brighten your teeth and remove stains. 

Teeth whitening is customized to each patient. Some people choose to whiten all of their teeth, while others may just whiten the teeth seen when you smile. The amount of bleaching Downtown Dental performs depends on the amount of staining present on your enamel and your desired results.

First, your dentist protects your lips and gums. Then, a whitening gel is applied to your teeth along with a substance to protect your enamel and reduce sensitivity. A blue LED light is applied to the teeth and whitening gel to accelerate the whitening process.

Why are my teeth yellow or stained?

Yellowed or stained teeth are not always the result of poor oral hygiene. People with excellent oral health may also have tooth discoloration and staining. Teeth become stained from:

  • Eating dark berries, beets, tomato-based sauces
  • Smoking and using tobacco products
  • Drinking cola, dark juices, coffee, red wine, or tea
  • Medications
  • Poor oral hygiene 

Teeth also take on a yellow appearance as part of the normal aging process. The outer layer of our teeth, the enamel, gets thinner with age and allows the darker, inner layer of the tooth to show through. If you’re unhappy with the discolored appearance of your teeth, teeth whitening at Downtown Dental whitens your teeth and increases your self-confidence.

Does teeth whitening work for everyone?

No, teeth whitening does not work on all teeth, which is why it’s better to visit Downtown Dental about teeth whitening than purchase an over-the-counter product. Teeth whitening won’t work for people with:

  • Tooth discoloration caused by certain medications
  • Fillings, veneers, or crowns
  • Brown or gray tooth discoloration
  • Injury-caused teeth discolored 

Most people can whiten their teeth if they have healthy gums and typical food-stained teeth or teeth discolored by the aging process. 

How do I keep my teeth white?

Teeth whitening is not permanent. Over time, your teeth can become discolored and stained again, but you can take steps to help keep them white: 

  • Brush and floss twice daily
  • Use tooth whitening toothpaste
  • Use mouthwash
  • Avoid dark staining beverages and foods
  • Use a straw when drinking dark beverages
  • Rinse your mouth with water after drinking beverages or eating

Scheduling a professional dental cleaning and exam twice a year also helps remove stains and keep them looking white. Call Downtown Dental or schedule an appointment online today for teeth whitening.

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