Our teeth tend to yellow with time and age. This can be made worse if you smoke or if you drink a lot of coffee or dark colored soda. Teeth whitening solutions are designed to restore teeth as close as possible to their original, natural white. This can, in turn, increase confidence and self-esteem.
Some over the counter whitening products are so normal now that it's almost impossible to find them without whitening ingredients. For instance whitening toothpaste, which is effective in reducing yellowing over time by removing light surface stains. You can usually get about about 1 shade lighter with this product.
Whitening mouthwashes are also now available, but experts think they may not be very effective simply because they are in contact with the teeth for too short a time.
Some additional over the counter whitening options include strips and gels. These usually contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Strips are applied directly to the teeth while gels are applied using a small brush. There are also tray-based whitening systems that can be purchased over the counter or even from your local dentist.
There are a few downsides to whitening systems purchased over the counter. Most have a one size fits all approach and are reliant on customers using them in the right way, which if not, can cause them to be less effective. There are also a few risks involved, such as gum damage due to chemical exposure. Whitening trays not fitted properly can potentially cause permanent damage, costing more to fix.
Some people should not whiten their teeth. Children under 16 should not use (or need) whitening products. If you are pregnant or lactating you should wait until after you have weaned the baby. People with sensitive teeth should talk to their dentist first, because the whitening system can cause irritation. Any cavities or gum issues should be treated before whitening, as it can make cavities worse. Also, the whitening materials will not affect fillings, crowns, etc - which can result in uneven whitening that actually makes your teeth look worse.
If all of this is intimidating - then the answer is to talk to your dentist. Although more expensive, you should consider an in-office whitening procedure, properly supervised by your dentist. They can make sure that you will not have any problems from the procedure chosen.
If stains are severe, your dentist may suggest crowns or porcelain veneers. You may also be able to purchase customized trays that are made from impressions of your own teeth. These trays can reduce the risk of tooth and gum damage.
Some over the counter whitening products are so normal now that it's almost impossible to find them without whitening ingredients. For instance whitening toothpaste, which is effective in reducing yellowing over time by removing light surface stains. You can usually get about about 1 shade lighter with this product.
Whitening mouthwashes are also now available, but experts think they may not be very effective simply because they are in contact with the teeth for too short a time.
Some additional over the counter whitening options include strips and gels. These usually contain either carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Strips are applied directly to the teeth while gels are applied using a small brush. There are also tray-based whitening systems that can be purchased over the counter or even from your local dentist.
There are a few downsides to whitening systems purchased over the counter. Most have a one size fits all approach and are reliant on customers using them in the right way, which if not, can cause them to be less effective. There are also a few risks involved, such as gum damage due to chemical exposure. Whitening trays not fitted properly can potentially cause permanent damage, costing more to fix.
Some people should not whiten their teeth. Children under 16 should not use (or need) whitening products. If you are pregnant or lactating you should wait until after you have weaned the baby. People with sensitive teeth should talk to their dentist first, because the whitening system can cause irritation. Any cavities or gum issues should be treated before whitening, as it can make cavities worse. Also, the whitening materials will not affect fillings, crowns, etc - which can result in uneven whitening that actually makes your teeth look worse.
If all of this is intimidating - then the answer is to talk to your dentist. Although more expensive, you should consider an in-office whitening procedure, properly supervised by your dentist. They can make sure that you will not have any problems from the procedure chosen.
If stains are severe, your dentist may suggest crowns or porcelain veneers. You may also be able to purchase customized trays that are made from impressions of your own teeth. These trays can reduce the risk of tooth and gum damage.
About the Author:
Learn more about Potomac Dental Clinic. Stop Potomac Dental Clinic site where you can find out all about Rockville, MD Family Cosmetic Dentistry and what it can do for you.
No comments:
Post a Comment