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Teeth Whitening: Is it Right For You?
Teeth whitening is an increasingly popular cosmetic dental procedure. However, the ADA warns that thoroughly cleaning before any bleaching treatment is critical to prevent complications such as gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.
The most common side effects of whitening are mild gum irritation and tooth sensitivity. Generally, these symptoms are temporary and improve after a few days. For more information, just visit on this link https://bocadentallasvegas.com/ provided to proceed.
If you’re tired of having yellow teeth, there are several ways to whiten them. From a simple home treatment to a more intense procedure at the dentist’s office, there are options for every budget and lifestyle. However, before trying a whitening method, talk to your dentist. They’ll help you determine your best option based on your habits, goals, and desired results.
One of the most affordable and easy-to-use home whitening methods is baking soda. According to a study published in The Journal of the American Dental Association, this common household compound has been effective at removing stains from your teeth. To use baking soda to whiten your teeth, mix a teaspoon of the powder with a small amount of water and brush it on your teeth for a few minutes. This can be done once or twice per week for a brighter smile.
Another popular at-home whitening treatment is oil pulling. This technique involves moving a type of oil – usually coconut oil – around your mouth for about 20 minutes up to three times a day before brushing. While this method may reduce bacteria in your mouth and prevent gum disease, little evidence it whitens your teeth.
Vinegar is also sometimes used as a natural teeth whitener, but the acidity of the substance can damage enamel and cause tooth sensitivity. It is best to avoid consuming vinegar regularly.
Many whitening products are sold over the counter, but most will only provide a temporary result. Many of these products are formulated with abrasive ingredients that may wear down your enamel, leaving your teeth exposed and vulnerable to staining. Additionally, the abrasive particles can make your teeth look more dull.
Most whitening products use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide as their whitening agent. These chemicals release oxygen molecules that break apart the molecules in your discolored teeth, allowing them to fade over time. When choosing a whitening product, be sure to read the label carefully and follow all directions.
Over-the-counter whitening products are less expensive than in-office whitening treatments, and they can be effective, depending on why your teeth are discolored and what the results are you want. These methods require more time commitment than a single in-office treatment, but they can work for you if you are committed to the process. The most important consideration is whether you can follow the instructions precisely and keep your mouth safe.
Over-the-counter whitening options include toothpastes that use mild abrasives to remove surface stains and low concentrations of hydrogen peroxide to bleach. Strips and whitening trays also use a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth. Many whitening products are available with the American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance, making it easy to find safe and effective ones.
A big drawback to most over-the-counter whitening products is that applying the whitening agent to each tooth and getting good, even coverage can take time and effort. This can result in uneven results, which are hard to live with. Also, the whitening agent can wash away or be wiped off during eating and drinking, and the result is only temporary.
Another concern is that most over-the-counter whitening treatments only work on extrinsic stains on the enamel of your teeth, not the intrinsic stains inside. Basic hydrogen peroxide does not have the power to eliminate inherent stains, which are most often caused by certain foods or habits like coffee and tea, wine, and smoking. Most whitening trays and strips use an active whitening ingredient like hydrated silica or sodium bicarbonate to remove these stains, but they are not as powerful as bleaching agents used in dentist offices.
You are not recommended to whiten your teeth with over-the-counter whitening products if you have crowns or bridges or are pregnant or breastfeeding. These methods are typically too harsh and can damage these restorations or irritate the pulp of your tooth, which is sensitive.
One exception is a whitening water flosser, such as the Waterpik WHITEning Water Flosser with Fresh Mint, which uses a whitening tablet inserted into the handle to remove surface stains from your teeth while you floss. It is a great alternative to using a standard toothbrush or whitening tray.
In-office whitening, or chairside bleaching as often called, involves a professional treatment performed under carefully monitored conditions. A higher concentration of whitening gel is used than is available with over-the-counter treatments, which can achieve dramatic results in a very short time.
Before a whitening procedure is started, the dentist will examine the color of the patient’s teeth and note the current shade on a chart. This helps to ensure that the whitening process will reach the desired endpoint. It also helps the dentist assess whether the whitening will negatively impact the tooth structure or gum tissue and whether the teeth will resist future staining once the whitening is complete.
The dentist may numb the lips, cheeks, and interior mouth tissues with a rubber dam or liquid rubber resin before beginning the whitening process. This helps to prevent irritation as the whitening gel is applied. Then, a whitening gel that contains either hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide is coated over the front surface of the teeth. Depending on the product used, it may be left on for a few minutes, or a whitening light may be positioned over the mouth to enhance the effect by speeding up the bleaching action of the whitening agent. The gel is then washed off, and the teeth rinsed. After the teeth are rinsed, a fluoride application is made to help reduce any remaining tooth sensitivity experienced after the whitening treatment.
After whitening, the teeth will be more vulnerable to staining for a few days. The patient must avoid foods and beverages that will spoil the teeth and stick with foods like white meat, chicken, vegetables, and plain yogurt. The patient will also need to brush and floss the teeth frequently, as these habits can help minimize new stains.
Whitening can dramatically improve the appearance of a smile and boost the confidence of a person who is proud to show off their brighter smile. However, the effectiveness of whitening is temporary, and it will fade over time. The patient should be prepared to make routine visits to the dentist for touch-up whitening and use a dental hygiene regimen that will help to protect the teeth from new stains.
Over time, teeth can become stained and discolored by stain-causing foods and drinks, smoking, and thinning enamel. Whitening is an affordable and quick cosmetic dentistry procedure that can brighten your smile and boost your confidence. Several different whitening treatments are available, including over-the-counter whitening kits and professional bleaching. However, it’s important to choose a treatment that is safe and effective.
Over-the-counter whitening products typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which break up stains on the surface of your teeth and make them less noticeable. On the other hand, in-office whitening uses a stronger whitening agent that penetrates your tooth enamel and whitens deeper stains. We recommend avoiding stain-causing foods and drinks, such as wine, coffee, dark berries, soda, and tomato sauce, before undergoing a whitening treatment to ensure your results last longer.
While a whiter smile is the most obvious benefit of whitening, it also improves your self-esteem and motivation to practice good oral hygiene. Studies have shown that people who smile more frequently are considered more attractive and likable, and they’re also believed to have better social and professional interactions.
If you want a whiter smile, contact us today to learn more about your options. We’ll be happy to provide a consultation and help you find the best whitening solution for your needs.
Although whitening can lighten your natural tooth color, it does not work on crowns, veneers, fillings, or dentures originally made to match your other teeth. Additionally, whitening is not permanent and will require touch-ups every few months or years.
Considering the risks and side effects of teeth whitening, it’s always a good idea to visit a dentist for this popular cosmetic dentistry procedure. We’ll make sure you get the best results with a minimal risk of complications or discomfort. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
We look forward to helping you achieve a beautiful and confident smile!