Teeth Whitening

Looking for an immediate confidence boost? Try tooth whitening! Yes, a set of pearly whites don’t just create an impact on your appearance, but bolster your confidence levels as well. In fact, tooth whitening is probably the most common of all cosmetic dentistry procedures- Americans spend around $3 billion every year on tooth whitening products.  From at-home teeth whitening gels to in-office custom trays, there are several treatment options available. 

What Are The Different Teeth Whitening Options?

At-home Bleaching Products:

Commercially available tooth bleaching products are very popular and range from the basic whitening toothpastes and gels, to whitening trays and strips. Most of these products are safe to use and come with clear instructions. Whitening toothpastes usually contain polishing agents that remove surface stains and lighten teeth color by one shade. Whitening gels often contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that lighten color by a few shades. These permeate deep into the teeth and even bleach the enamel. When using a whitening gel based tray, remember to buy trays that fit, or the treatment may be ineffective.

In-office Bleaching Products:

In-office tooth bleaching is probably a better idea for people who’re new to the treatment. Bleaching products aren’t effective on all types of discoloration. For example, yellow teeth respond well to these products, whereas they’re ineffective on brown and grey teeth. The dentist may begin by cleaning the teeth and assessing the impact of bleach on your dental health. If you are a candidate for the procedure, he applies a gum or protective shield to protect the gums and later proceeds to apply the bleach on the teeth. Sometimes, a laser light is also used to enhance appearance. 

Is Tooth Whitening Safe?

Tooth whitening is generally considered safe. Over the counter whitening trays that do not fit properly often spill to the gums and cause irritation. If you experience tooth sensitivity, discontinue the treatment and continue after advice from the dentist.