Teeth Whitening

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Teeth whitening is a process to brighten your own natural teeth. In the best circumstances, no removing or etching of your dental enamel takes place during teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be done at a dentist’s office or at home, the former being more safe and producing better results. There’s a lot to know about teeth whitening. Here are the answers to some common questions and concerns about this treatment.

RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH WHITENING

One major concern of teeth whitening that people have is the effects of teeth whitening on crowns and fillings. Because crowns and fillings are made from different materials than your natural teeth, they may not whiten in the way as your organic teeth will. This is a big concern when using over the counter teeth whitening kits. Crowns have a higher likelihood of being a different shade while your teeth would be another shade. This can result in an uneven look that is less appealing than what you would expect. This is one of the main reasons why anyone with crowns should only get teeth whitening at a dentist’s office; in order to ensure uniform results.

Secondly, teeth may be very sensitive to over the counter teeth whitening agents. Depending on the product you use, the sensitivity can last for a few days. The result can be very uncomfortable, particularly when you eat or drink certain things. Again, to avoid this unpleasant result, professional teeth whitening is recommended.

WHO CAN GET TEETH WHITENING?

Generally speaking, anybody in their teens and above can safely get teeth whitening done. As long as your teeth are relatively healthy, there’s no reason why you wouldn’t be a candidate for professional teeth whitening. You and your dentist can make the final decision together. Teeth whitening should not necessarily be performed on young children simply because it’s rarely necessary. Teeth become discolored over time and children generally don’t have a problem with discolored teeth. In addition, you should not use at-home whitening products if you have sensitive gums or have sensitive teeth.

Young adults and teenagers typically get teeth whitening done to beautify their smile and better their appearance. During adolescence, teeth may be poorly looked after and so a lot of youngsters this age will look for options like teeth whitening in order to enhance their appearance during those sometimes awkward years.

WHAT ARE TEETH WHITENING STRIPS?

Teeth whitening strips are one of the at-home teeth whitening options available for people who desire whiter brighter teeth. Teeth whitening strips can potentially lift the whiteness of your teeth by several shades. Teeth whitening strips come on a clear plastic strip with directions to apply the product enclosed with the packaging.

The best way to apply a strip is on a dry tooth. You can dry your teeth with a clean towel before applying the strip. Talk to your dentist before using any kind of teeth whitening strips on your teeth. Your dentist may have information about certain teeth whitening strips or recommend a different teeth whitening option.

HOW IS TEETH WHITENING DONE AT A DENTISTS OFFICE?

When you get professional teeth whitening done at the dentist’s office, the treatment is completely non-invasive. There is no pain or discomfort involved at all. First, the gums are covered with a special rubber compound, which is done to protect them from the bleaching agent. After the gums have been covered and the teeth have been dried, a bleaching solution is applied to the teeth. After a period of time, the bleaching solution is removed and the teeth are rinsed with water.

The whole process typically takes one to two hours and the result typically lasts one to three years or longer, depending on your own good dental care as well as regular professional oral hygiene. You can expect to raise the shade of your teeth by ten to fourteen several shades lighter.

DIY HOME TEETH WHITENING METHODS

There are several methods to whiten your teeth at home using DIY materials. One such technique is a baking soda mouth wash. Mix one teaspoon baking soda with a glass of water and swish it in your mouth. After a few days to a week you should notice a gradual lightening of your teeth. The results will be subtle, but natural looking.

A second popular at-home method involves a form of charcoal powder. Activated charcoal powder can be used to whiten teeth. Crush the charcoal to a powder, then dip your toothbrush in the powder and mix with water for a paste. As usual, speak to your dentist before using any DIY teeth whitening methods.

If you’re interested in getting your teeth whitened, make an appointment with your dentist today. You can leave your appointment with a whiter, brighter smile that will make you feel confident and self-assured.