Gel Teeth Whitening

One of the least invasive forms of tooth whitening is bleaching gel. There are several reasons that gel teeth whitening is the most effective way to whiten teeth.

The gel adheres to every exposed surface of the teeth for an even and smooth coverage. Gels are usually very sturdy and don't tend to wash away from the teeth while in use. There are gel whitening options available over-the-counter for home use, or stronger options available at a cosmetic dentist's office.

Using Tooth Whitening Gel at Home

Home gel teeth whitening products provide all of the physical benefits of a gel tooth whitener. They are usually sold with small trays that can be worn to protect the gel and keep it from washing away from the teeth. Gel whiteners can be painted on quickly and easily and worn for hours at a time.

Some brands are meant to be worn overnight, which makes it easier for users to whiten their teeth without interrupting their normal schedules. Over-the-counter gels are more effective than whitening strips or whitening toothpastes, but they are still slower than a tooth whitening procedure from a dentist.

Professional Tooth Whitening Gel

Cosmetic dentists offer gel teeth whitening that can make a distinct difference in just a few short hours. The gels that dentists use are far more powerful than the over-the-counter gels that are available from the local drugstore. When a dentist applies a gel whitener it is applied relatively thickly, then exposed to a light that activates the bleaching chemicals within the gel.

This light and gel combination quickly works on even the most stubborn tooth stains. Patients typically experience an average increase of 5 brightness levels after one gel teeth whitening session at a cosmetic dentist's office.

Safety Concerns

Some people worry that gel teeth whitening can cause faster deterioration of the enamel on their teeth. The truth is, teeth whitening is perfectly safe for anyone who has healthy teeth. The bleaching process does not erode the enamel.

It simply causes the stains to become lighter through a safe chemical reaction. Pregnant women and young children should avoid tooth whitening because their teeth are not as strong as an average healthy adult's teeth.

But otherwise, gel teeth whitening is the safest and least painful way to improve someone's smile through cosmetic dentistry. Whitening can be done as often as necessary to maintain a bright white smile.

Part 8 - How To Bleach Your Teeth