Bright Teeth Whitening
Teeth Whitening: The Secret Behind the World's Most Gorgeous Teeth
Drinking coffee, eating potatoes, slurping soda, and smoking a cigarette. What do these four things have in common? All of the above can ultimately lead to tooth discoloration, a visible yellowing of the tooth surface caused by the decay of tooth enamel. Yellow teeth are unsightly, lowering the aesthetic appeal of a person's appearance. Even with proper brushing technique, teeth can still become discolored over time, from sources as diverse as genetics and medication.
The Teeth Whitening Process
Thankfully, there are many options for regaining bright white teeth. The teeth whitening process exists in many forms with diverse amounts of monetary investment required for each. The methods of teeth whitening vary in both the amount of time they consume and the desirability of the final results achieved. Each teeth whitening method is associated with unique risks and challenges. However, many believe that the final result of white teeth is worth the possibility of unwanted side effects. The first step in the teeth whitening process is determining which route is to be taken to whiter teeth.
Whiten Your Teeth At Home
Home whitening treatments are one of the most popular options for cosmetic teeth whitening. Kits can be bought from major supermarket chains at a fraction of the cost of traditional in-office treatments. There are a variety of different whitening kits available, ranging in cost from 4 to 100 dollars. Home whitening has many advantages. Besides costing less than professional whitening options, home whitening allows a greater degree of privacy, and a much more gradual process. This type of whitening would be most effective for someone seeking to discretely whiten their teeth.
Home whitening is for those on the go, busy business-people who may not have the time to sit for in-office whitening treatments. There are few disadvantages to normal use of at-home whitening. However, when it is abused, the consequences can be devastating. Overuse of home whitening kits can lead to uneven whitening or even bluing of the teeth. Improper usage can also cause gum irritation and defects in tooth enamel. Each home whitening option comes with different risks and different benefits.
Home Teeth Whitening Options
Among the home-whitening community, there are many discrepancies over which kind of whitening system to utilize. Whitening strips are one of the many options to try. These strips are engineered to conform to the shape of teeth, adhering to the enamel surface. The strips are generally worn for thirty consecutive minutes at a time. For the duration of this time, the wearer should not eat or drink. The wearer repeats the whitening treatment for anywhere from three to fourteen days, depending on the instructions.
Concentration of hydrogen peroxide, the active ingredient in at-home whiteners, is important in deciding on which strips to use. Higher percentages of peroxide are used for faster whitening, while lower concentrations are less harsh. Whitening strips, while an excellent option for teeth whitening, are not without drawbacks. Strips are not recommended for those who have overlapping teeth, or those with smiles too wide to be adequately covered by the strips.
A second option for at-home whitening is brush-on gels. These have been determined to be generally less effective, as saliva can dissolve the gel quickly. Brush-ons are used after meals. An alternative to the first two treatments is a whitening toothpaste, which is a daily, gentle, and cost-effective whitening option. However, the short amount of time that toothpaste remains on the teeth lessens its effectiveness.
Professional Teeth Whitening
Traditional professional teeth whitening is done in-office by a certified dentist. Teeth are protected by a rubber dam and covered in a concentrated whitening gel for 15-20 minute intervals. This costs around $500 and can improve teeth color by two to eight shades. Temporary dehydration of teeth may cause them to appear whiter at first. Teeth should reach the actual shade within several days.
Laser Teeth Whitening
Laser teeth whitening is a major trend in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Performed by a certified dentist, laser teeth whitening is more accurately known as light activated teeth whitening. A special light is used to enhance the effects of whitening gel. The procedure takes from thirty minutes to an hour and can cost anywhere from $400-900. This whitening option is great for people who want professional results quickly and have pockets deep enough to fund it.
Natural Teeth Whitening
Oddly enough, one of the best natural remedies for teeth whitening is eating crunchy vegetables, which are abrasive and scrub away surface stains. Baking soda can also be used to gently whiten teeth and kill harmful bacteria. Do not attempt to whiten your teeth with lemon juice or strawberries, as this dissolves enamel.
Gel Teeth Whitening
Many dentists encourage at-home gel whitening. A fitted tray is filled with a peroxide gel. The treatment costs around $100-$400 and should be worn for two hours a day for two weeks.
How to Bleach Your Teeth
Deep bleaching is actually a combination of techniques. Proteins are removed from teeth and impressions are made. Then, teeth are bleached in office, then at home. After another bleaching, the course of treatment is complete.
Appeal of A White Smile
Knowing you have a white smile can inspire self-confidence. Being unashamed to smile is entirely beneficial.
Popularity of White Teeth
People with white teeth are perceived as more attractive. Employers feel that interviewees with a nice smile take better care of themselves. Thus, people with a whiter smile could see an improvement in their work and personal lives.
Teeth Whitening Products
As far as products go, there are many options. Large companies such as Crest, Aquafresh, and Rembrandt make home whitening solutions. Your dentist will help you decide which in-office treatment is right for your teeth.