Tooth Talk with Paul Poteet

By PAUL POTEET
Broadcast Legend

I can’t talk about my teeth without talking about coffee and I can’t talk about coffee without talking about TV. And thanks to TV (and other video work) I have to keep an eye on my teeth, so to speak.

My coffee habit kicked into high gear during the early portion of my 15 years on WRTV’s Good Morning Indiana. You do, after all, get up in the middle of the night. I would walk past a pot of coffee our director Betsy had going every morning, and it smelled great. One morning I gave in, poured a cup, and sealed my fate. I typically have three or even four cups a day. I enjoy not only the smell of coffee; I enjoy the taste of it. Oh, I may stray, but I’ll always return to my dark master: the coffee bean!

But: take the bad with the good. Coffee can stain your teeth. I get my teeth cleaned every six months, but this is the kind of stuff that builds.

Enter our long-time friends at Carmel West Dentistry.

Dr. Rawan Tannous said Zoom Whitening would improve my caffeinated smile. I’m happy to say it worked.

I asked the Doc some questions you might have about whitening your teeth.

Are teeth really supposed to be white?

Teeth are often off-white or slightly yellowish. Factors such as genetics, age, lifestyle, and oral hygiene significantly influence tooth color. Many people aim for a bright, natural white appearance, which can be achieved through good oral hygiene and professional whitening.

Who is a good candidate for whitening?

Individuals with healthy teeth and gums are ideal candidates for whitening. Whitening is particularly effective for those with discoloration from coffee, tea, wine, or tobacco.

Why do you have to watch what you eat and drink after Zoom Whitening treatment?

After Zoom whitening, it is crucial to monitor food and drink choices to maintain the results. This is because your teeth are temporarily more porous and susceptible to staining immediately after the treatment.

For the first 24 to 48 hours post-treatment, maintaining a lighter diet, often referred to as the “white diet,” can help preserve the brightness of your smile. It’s advisable to avoid pigmented foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, red wine, and certain sauces, as they can easily penetrate the enamel and cause discoloration.

Do I have to keep whitening?

The frequency of teeth whitening depends on individual factors such as lifestyle, diet, and the type of whitening method used. In-office professional whitening treatment is recommended once a year for optimal results. After initial whitening, some individuals may only need touch-ups at home every few months.

How has the treatment changed in your time as a dentist?

Recent advancements including laser whitening and LED technology enhanced the effectiveness and speed of treatments. The focus has shifted towards safer, more effective methods that minimize tooth sensitivity and damage.

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Personally, I had no sensitivity, but I really missed that coffee for two days! For teeth whitening or general dentistry, I highly recommend Dr. Tannous and the crew at Carmel West Dentistry. They are at 3965 W. 106th St., Ste. 100 in Carmel. Give them a call at (317) 253-8631. Tell them Mister Weatherman sent ya!

Paul Poteet is a radio and TV personality and owner of The Reporter, and, most importantly, Hamilton County’s Hometown Weatherman.