What You Should Know About Teeth Whitening

The appearance of stained teeth can be improved using a simple and reasonably priced procedure called teeth whitening. The most secure, effective care will be given by your dentist. Treatments purchased over the counter may be riskier and less effective.

What is teeth whitening?

Bleaching the teeth results in tooth whitening, which lightens their color. After treatment, the teeth usually appear a little bit whiter but not completely white.

Whitening your teeth is only an optional procedure; it is very rarely necessary.

Hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are frequently used in whitening products. The most concentrated whitening products, which are also the most potent, can only be used lawfully by licensed dental professionals.

The bleach enters the tooth's outer layer of enamel and enters the dentine, which is the bulk of the inside and is slightly softer than the enamel. The discoloration is brought on by the bleach's reaction with colored molecules. As a result, the dentine gets paler and the teeth appear whiter. By being more reflecting after bleaching, the enamel surface could appear whiter.

When might someone need teeth whitening?

Teeth can become discolored due to:

• smoking

• coffee, red wine, tea, or cola

• excessive fluoride or the antibiotic tetracycline while the teeth are developing
  
  

If you're thinking of getting your teeth whitened, check with your dentist to see if it's a good idea for your teeth.

It is not advised to whiten your teeth if you:

• are breastfeeding or pregnant

• teeth are sensitive

• have shrinkage or gum disease

• possess gum disease or shrinking

It should be noted that whitening procedures won't lighten pre-existing crowns, veneers, or fillings.

Additionally, unlicensed, unregulated professionals sell teeth whitening services in places including salons, shopping centers, beauty parlors, and mobile businesses. Many non-dental practitioners that offer teeth whitening services make the claim that the people performing the operations are "teeth whitening specialists" who have the skills or education necessary to do so. The Australian Dental Association cautions that only licensed dentists have the knowledge to determine whether bleaching is safe for you, to suggest the best method and materials, and to deliver care that complies with safety and quality standards.

What takes place throughout the teeth-whitening process? Bleaching

Your top and bottom teeth will first be molded by your dentist. These are used to create custom trays that fit over your teeth like a mouthguard.

The trays are filled with bleaching gel at your subsequent session, and you wear them in your mouth for 15 to 30 minutes. A light may also be shone by the dentist to hasten the bleaching procedure. Following the dentist's instructions, the procedure is frequently repeated at home. In two to four weeks, you'll probably see a difference.

Another choice is to purchase a kit from your dentist that includes the customized trays and complete the procedure there. Power bleaching In the clinic, power bleaching, commonly referred to as laser whitening, is carried out. Your dentist will first cover your gums before applying a whitening substance to your teeth. To start the whitening process, a laser beam is shone. It usually only requires one treatment, which takes about 60 minutes.

What to expect after a teeth-whitening procedure

Although teeth whitening is frequently successful and can last for several years, it is not permanent. For instance, red wine, tea, and coffee can restain your teeth.

Benefits and risks of a teeth-whitening procedure

Teeth that are discolored might look better thanks to teeth whitening. Additionally, it costs less than some other restorative techniques. Before beginning treatment, make sure you learn about the price, dangers, and anticipated results.

The most common side effects, which are often temporary, include:

• sensitivity of the teeth, particularly after power bleaching

• discomfort in the gums

How much does it cost to get teeth whitened?

• For the top and bottom arch, bleaching at the dentist's office with at-home maintenance costs between $500 and $1500.

• Bleaching at home with trays given by the dentist costs $250 to $450 per arch

whitening alternatives for teeth

A few options exist if you're not satisfied with your teeth:

• cleaning your teeth at the dentist

• using whitening toothpaste

• dental restoration, such as veneers or crowns