Expert Advice From Dr. Lakota

Q:  My friend bleached her teeth and they look great.  But when I bleached my teeth, they didn’t look as good as hers.  Why is that?


A:  Bleaching works different for everyone. There are multiple factors that determine the effectiveness of bleaching.  The main factor is the condition of your existing teeth. If you have thicker enamel (the hard outer layer) then you generally see a vast improvement from bleaching.  If your teeth are thinner and chipped, which generally happens as we get older, then the results are not as drastic. Also, if you have deep stains from tetracycline, or other reasons where the teeth are more “gray”, the bleach is less effective.  Another factor is the type of bleaching.  When I have a patient tell me that bleaching overnight didn’t “work” for them, it’s usually because they would wake up and have a cup of coffee after they removed the trays.  Bleaching “dries” the teeth out during the procedure; this makes the teeth more susceptible to stains immediately following the procedure.  Coffee, dark cola, smoking, or any dark sauces will discolor the teeth and disrupt the whitening.  This is why the “one hour” bleaching has become so popular, we only ask that you abstain from these things for 24-48 hours after.

     Before you spend your money on trying what bleaching method works for you, a highly recommend you seek a consultation with a dentist who offers both systems.  They can recommend what’s best for you.  There are always alternatives to bleaching like porcelain or composite veneers.  So if bleaching didn’t work for you, don’t be discouraged.  Dentistry has advanced greatly over the past 10-15 years, there’s always an alternative to get that attractive smile you deserve.

Q:  My teeth are chipping away in the front.  I don’t notice myself grinding but my family has weak teeth.  Do you think that could be the reason?

A:  Genetics can play a part in the condition of our teeth, but just a small part.  When teeth are chipping and fracturing, especially in the front, this most likely is due to grinding.  The reason many people believe that they don’t grind is because grinding is done during sleep.  A common misconception is that stress causes the grinding.  Though stress makes it worse, there are underlying reasons.  One main reason is a TMJ problem.  TMJ problems are masked very well by our body’s ability to adapt. This needs to be addressed by a dentist that has the proper training in not only diagnosing the problem, but treating it.  Another reason for grinding is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is under diagnosed and is now starting to garner the attention it so desperately needs.  Though anyone can have sleep apnea, it is more prevalent with overweight males over 40 years old.  95% of people with sleep apnea don’t know they have it.  These people will have an increase risk for cardiovascular issues, diabetes, stroke, hypertension and decreased life expectancy.   A properly trained dentist can identify these risk factors and provide the proper treatment for their grinding.

We need an accurate picture of your dental health to develop the best plan for improving and maintain your best smile. Dr. Lakota utilizes leading edge technology and continually monitors the latest advancements so that our patients receive the top-notch care they expect.

We have chosen Zoom Whitening and BriteSmile for in-office procedures. These systems remove harsh stains and brighten tooth enamel up to eight shades in just an hour. A potent combination of hydrogen peroxide bleaching agent and ultraviolet light whisks away stains in a matter of minutes.

Some patients opt for home teeth whitening, either for a less obvious and gradual option, because of the convenience, or for the lower cost. If you choose home whitening, we will simply fit you for custom bleaching trays and supply you with a strong, safe whitening gel. Follow the instructions closely, and in about 10-14 days, your smile will look more youthful and vibrant.

Dr. Lakota has helped hundreds of patients achieve a more attractive image. With porcelain veneers, teeth whitening, and CEREC crowns, cosmetic dentistry can give you a youthful, all-white, shapely smile. In some cases, a total smile makeover is the best solution to enhance appearance and boost self-esteem. The possibilities with cosmetic dentistry are limited only by your imagination, and Dr. Lakota will guide you with expert advice, education, and options.