Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening, also known as teeth bleaching has become extremely popular over the last few years. Its a great way to improve your appearance, its reasonably priced, non-surgical and non-invasive.
As with everything else, teeth whitening isn't perfect, or 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.
Here are some simple teeth whitening facts:
Teeth Whitening Fact 1
Teeth whitening procedures are not covered by most dental insurance plans.
Teeth Whitening Fact 2
Tooth-coloured 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 grey tinted teeth might be disappointed as they 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 need treatment before getting their teeth whitened.
Teeth Whitening Fact 10
It's a good idea to have thorough dental cleaning, preferably with a hygienist prior to having your teeth whitened to remove surface stains.
Teeth Whitening Options
Dental Surgery Bleaching
Teeth whitening in a dental surgery offers excellent results. This procedure is performed in the dental surgery and can be done very quickly, usually in a little over an hour. Though this bleaching is expensive, the time saved and immediate results are attractive.
Teeth Whitening Trays and Gels
Teeth whitening trays and gels are very effective, but 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 two types of teeth whitening trays and gels: Those purchased from your dentist and those from over the counter. While they both whiten your teeth, there are noted differences:
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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 rising is popularity. These whitening strips are fairly inexpensive and easy to use, however, most of them dont really work. Again, teeth whitening strips may take longer to produce the desired results depending on the strength of peroxide that they contain.
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 arising, such as 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.
Teeth whitening treatment is conducted by our Specialists in Prosthodontics, Martin Lovell and Michael Thomas . If you are still unsure, ask your dentist to recommend a teeth whitening treatment for you, or contact the Wessex Dental Specialist Centre .