Before You Whiten Your Teeth...
Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching, has become extremely popular over the last several years. It’s a great way to improve your appearance, it’s reasonably priced, non-surgical and non-invasive. As with everything else, teeth whitening isn't perfect and it isn't for everyone. Before you decide to have your teeth whitened, you should talk with your dentist. Your dentist can determine if you are a good candidate for teeth whitening. Knowing the facts can help you with your decision also:
Teeth Whitening Fact #1
Teeth whitening procedures are not covered by most dental insurance plans.
Teeth Whitening Fact #2
Tooth colored fillings, crowns, bridges and veneers will not lighten when your teeth are bleached.
Teeth Whitening Fact #3
Teeth whitening toothpastes can make your teeth appear a little lighter by removing stains, but they do not actually bleach your teeth.
Teeth Whitening Fact #4
Teeth whitening does not produce the same results on all types of teeth discoloration. Someone with yellow tinted teeth would probably have great results with bleaching, while someone with gray tinted teeth might be disappointed because gray tinted teeth don't bleach as well.
Teeth Whitening Fact #5
Tooth sensitivity and gum irritation are common side effects of teeth whitening treatments.
Teeth Whitening Fact #6
If you have any cavities, they should be filled before you have your teeth whitened.
Teeth Whitening Fact #7
Teeth whitening kits from the dentist produce faster results because they contain a stronger peroxide bleaching agent than whitening kits purchased over the counter.
Teeth Whitening Fact #8
Touch ups are usually needed to maintain your desired shade, depending upon habits such as smoking, drinking coffee and tea and eating certain foods which will stain your teeth.
Teeth Whitening Fact #9
People with gum disease shouldn't get their teeth whitened.
Teeth Whitening Fact #10
It's a good idea to have a dental cleaning prior to having your teeth whitened to remove surface stains.
Teeth Whitening Options
Teeth Whitening Can Give You a New Smile
Teeth whitening has become so popular that it seems like everyone is doing it. If you want to obtain a bright and white smile, teeth whitening may be just what you are looking for. Not only is teeth whitening effective, it can also drastically change your smile and improve your self-esteem at the same time.
The peroxide ingredient in most teeth whitening products is what actually bleaches the enamel and makes your teeth whiter. The strength of the whitening treatment typically depends on the strength of the peroxide contained in the whitening product. The current percentages of peroxide in teeth whitening products are 10, 16 and 22 percent.
If you are considering teeth whitening, be sure to review the facts about teeth whitening with your dentist first.
Only your dentist can tell you if your teeth and gums are healthy enough to go through a whitening process.
If your dentist has determined that you are a candidate to have your teeth whitened, you will need to decide which teeth whitening method to choose from.
In-Office Bleaching -- In-office teeth whitening offers excellent results. This procedure is performed in the dental office and can be done very quickly, usually in a little over an hour. In-office bleaching is expensive, but the time that you save by having immediate results can make this option appealing.
Teeth Whitening Trays and Gels -- Teeth whitening trays and gels are very effective, but the desired results take longer to achieve than with in-office bleaching. Depending on the strength of peroxide in the gel, these clear trays are usually worn a couple of hours a day or overnight and could take anywhere from 3 days to a couple of weeks before any results are noticed. There are basically two types of teeth whitening trays and gels: Those purchased from your dentist and those purchased over the counter. While they will both whiten your teeth, there are noted differences in the two.
Teeth whitening kits from the dentist produce faster and more effective results because they contain a stronger peroxide-bleaching agent than whitening kits purchased over the counter. Another benefit of trays and gels from the dentist is that the trays are custom made and fit your teeth exactly. Over-the-counter trays are generic sized and could allow the bleaching agent to come into contact with your gums, causing irritation.
Teeth Whitening Strips -- Teeth whitening strips are popping up in every drug store across the nation. These whitening strips sold over the counter are fairly inexpensive, easy to use and most of them really work. Teeth whitening strips may take take longer to produce the desired results depending on the strength of peroxide that they contain. Good Housekeeping recently did an interesting study about which whitening strips work the best.
Teeth Whitening Toothpastes -- Teeth whitening toothpastes contain mild abrasives to remove surface stains. Some whitening toothpastes may have additional polishing agents and special chemicals that are more effective against stains than regular toothpastes, but teeth whitening toothpastes are not designed to actually "bleach" your teeth.
Other Teeth Whitening Products -- New teeth whitening products are always popping up. In general, I can name a few: whitening chewing gum, dental floss and mouthwashes. While these products are relatively new, not much research has been done to prove or disprove the effectiveness of these whitening products. I have actually tried all three and I am sad to say that while they tasted good or worked well, I didn’t see any whitening results.
If you are still unsure, ask your dentist to recommend a teeth whitening treatment for you.
