We all like to have teeth that are free of stains and discoloration. However, over time, it is easy to lose that bright, white appearance gradually. Many factors help determine the color of our teeth. There are also many options for trying to get that beautiful white color back if discoloration should occur.
Patients considering teeth whitening treatments will need to decide if they want to choose a method that uses bleaching or one that is a non-bleach technique. A patient will also want to think about if they’re going to try a do-it-themselves home whitening kit, or if they would prefer for a dentist to whiten them professionally.
Home Whitening Kits
Whitening agents in a store-bought kit can be useful when whitening your teeth. The active ingredient in many teeth whitening treatments is hydrogen peroxide, and it is a bleaching agent.
At home, you can fill the provided trays with the whitening gel and fit them like a gumshield on to your teeth. The individual usually repeats this process, and over time teeth become whiter and are not as discolored.
Many home whitening kits that can be purchased contain much lower levels of hydrogen peroxide than would be used in a professional teeth whitening treatment. Users may find the process takes much longer because of this.
Users will also need to ensure the whitening trays fit tightly to their teeth so the bleaching agent can work effectively to remove staining. Some users may find that the agent also irritates their gums. If irritation occurs, it is best to stop immediately and consult a dental professional.
Home whitening kits that do not use a bleaching agent usually rely on abrasive materials to remove staining. Whitening toothpaste or gels can be purchased, and the patient uses them over time to obtain a brighter appearance. These kits do not work as deeply into the teeth as bleaching agents, and so they may not be as effective.
Professional Dental Teeth Whitening
It may look easy just to put a whitening tray into your mouth and wait for results to happen. However, the treatment is not as simple as that, and there are essential aspects to consider.
Misused, hydrogen peroxide can be applied for too long or in too high a concentration, causing damage to the tooth enamel, and lasting harm to the tooth as a whole. Also, if teeth are already in a state of decay, then the chemical may cause long-lasting damage, with the user possibly needing to replace the tooth altogether.
It may seem more expensive to have a dental professional carry out your treatment. However, if an individual does it themselves and it is carried out incorrectly, or on teeth that are already damaged, then this can lead to costly repair work, not to mention the physical discomfort you may suffer.
At Owens Cosmetic & Family Dentists, you will have an initial consultation with one of our trained professionals. They will check your oral health and ensure using a whitening system is right for you.
Our Zoom Whitening method uses professional strength concentrations of hydrogen peroxide, sometimes as much as four times as concentrated as those found in commercial home whitening kits. Your dentist will coat your teeth in the whitening agent, and then shine a Zoom light on your teeth to help speed up the decomposition of the hydrogen peroxide. This process will release oxygen which travels deep into your teeth, removing stains and discoloration as it goes.
The entire process takes approximately one hour, and typical results show teeth becoming around 6-8 shades lighter.
Final Thoughts
Brightening your smile can be achieved both at home or in-office. You should always consult a dental professional before undertaking any treatment plan. Your dental health involves much more than just having white teeth.
You can keep your oral hygiene at a high standard by having an excellent dental care routine, involving brushing and flossing each day. But when teeth need a more thorough treatment to return your smile to its natural white color, speak to your dentist for professional advice.
Call us at Owens Cosmetic & Family Dentistry today on 248-621-4816 or complete our online consultation form to arrange a consultation.
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