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Have you been looking in the mirror lately and noticing a difference in your smile? Sure, your teeth are clean and healthy, but something has changed gradually. Is it that your teeth are not as bright as they used to be? Despite your efforts to brush them properly and take care of them. Let’s explore what could this be and what you can do to light up your smile.
What causes staining or discoloration of teeth?
Over time, drinking coffee and other beverages, smoking cigarettes, and simply aging can stain or discolor teeth, as can certain medications such as tetracycline. Additionally, plaque buildup on teeth can cause them to look yellow. This in turn can lower self-esteem and cause us to hide our smiles. Based on reports, one in four adults avoid smiling due to the condition of their teeth and mouth.
What is teeth whitening?
There are ways you can brighten your teeth. “Teeth Whitening” is any procedure that will make teeth appear whiter. Whitening products contain peroxides, which are the chemicals that remove both surface and deep stains on teeth and cause them to become even lighter than their natural shade. This can be easily done at home by using many products that are available over the counter, apart from that teeth whitening is performed professionally by your dentist.
Whitening at home
Over the counter whitening kits and other products have become popular since they’re inexpensive and easy to use. They contain fewer amounts of peroxides so they’re safe to use. These products can have decent results and can be used repeatedly. All kinds of products like whitening toothpastes, strips, gels and even chewing gums are available. Among the newest whitening products available are whitening rinses. If you decide to try whitening at home, you’ll have to consult your dentist first especially if you have the following:
· Sensitive teeth
· Dental restorations
· Very dark stains or a single dark tooth
· Lots of fillings or crowns
Professional whitening by Dentists
If you’re looking to spruce up your smile professionally, you’ll get far more effective results as your dentist can decide best which course would be fit for you as per your requirement and teeth conditions. At office procedure requires the following steps:
- Your mouth is prepared by having gums and lips covered.
- A professional-grade bleaching gel is applied to the teeth
- A special light is focused on the teeth to help activate the bleaching gel
- The bleaching gel application and light treatment can be repeated depending on the desired results
You can expect your teeth to whiten by as much as two to eight shades brighter. Depending on whether you have achieved your desired color or not, you may be advised to come back for an additional session or opt for a supplemental at-home treatment.
Pros and Cons of teeth whitening
A brighter smile can certainly boost confidence if you’re insecure about the color of your teeth. The procedure is relatively safer when carried out by a dentist as they can monitor your situation and provide treatment accordingly.
One of the drawbacks of teeth whitening is that it is not permanent. This can be managed with regular trips to your dentist or at home kits as advised by your dentist. You may experience tooth sensitivity from the bleach solution, however this is temporary and subsides once the treatment is complete.
In conclusion, one of the most accessible and most affordable forms of professional cosmetic dentistry out there is teeth whitening. Teeth whitening can be performed in office or at home, depending on your preference. Ongoing care provided by dentists will give you the safest and best results for your teeth.