There are two main types of stains on your teeth: extrinsic and intrinsic. The former is the result of exposure to coffee, soda, or smoking, while the latter is caused by the inner structure of your tooth, called dentin. Extrinsic stains may also be the result of dental trauma or too much fluoride as a child. In both cases, teeth whitening treatments will improve the appearance of your teeth.
In-office whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a great way to whiten your teeth without spending a lot of money or time. The results of in-office whitening are visible right away. If you have a big event coming up or only have a few days to spend on a dental procedure, in-office teeth whitening is the best option. It is fast, easy, and done by a professional. You can even choose to have a few treatments over the course of several weeks.
Before your teeth whitening appointment, visit the dentist. You will likely need a dental exam to determine your overall dental health. The dentist will also check for any problems that could affect the bleaching process. These issues may cause varying degrees of irritation or delay the whitening process. During the examination, the dentist may also take photos of your teeth to create a shade guide. This way, you can see how your teeth are progressing and what areas may need additional treatment.
Over-the-counter whitening kits
You may have noticed that over-the-counter whitening kits for teeth are more popular than ever. These teeth-whitening kits typically include a mouthguard-like tray, a gel-based whitening solution, and a portable LED light to activate the bleaching ingredients. However, some kits do not use the light method. To find out if an over-the-counter teeth-whitening kit is right for you, read online reviews.
Most over-the-counter whitening kits contain carbamide peroxide, a compound similar to hydrogen peroxide. These bleaching agents are broken down by light, heat, and saliva. Because hydrogen peroxide is too strong to use at home, carbamide peroxide is a safer and more convenient bleaching agent. However, high concentrations of carbamide peroxide can cause gum irritation and tooth sensitivity.
Bleaching agents
A light-accelerated bleaching agent contains a lower concentration of hydrogen peroxide than traditional tooth whitening kits and is accompanied by a titanium oxide nanoparticle-based catalyst. The combination of light and titanium oxide nanoparticles causes a localized breakdown of hydrogen peroxide, resulting in the formation of highly reactive radicals that have short lifetimes. These radicals are capable of bleaching teeth in the same manner as high-concentration teeth-whitening agents.
Professional whitening procedures are more effective than home-based treatments. A dentist uses higher concentration bleaching agents and can provide you with better results in a shorter period of time. In addition, professional whitening services tend to be more expensive than at-home whitening systems, but the results last longer. Additionally, professional whitening is a safe, accurate process with an appropriate outcome. The dentist can ensure proper care and safety during the process to produce whiter teeth for you.
Side effects
Chemical whitening methods may cause temporary tooth sensitivity and mild irritation to soft tissues in the mouth. While these symptoms are temporary and will disappear after a few days, they can be uncomfortable and cause discomfort for the patient. It is advisable to take a painkiller prior to the whitening procedure, especially if your teeth are particularly sensitive. Listed below are some of the most common side effects of teeth whitening. Please remember, this article is not intended to serve as medical advice, and the reader should always consult a health care provider for their particular needs and concerns.
Aside from sensitivity, teeth whitening can lead to uneven coloration, and you should consult a dentist to discuss the side effects of a whitening treatment with you. Usually, teeth whitening gel only penetrates the outer layer of the enamel, so this side effect will subside within a few days. You should avoid hot or cold foods during this time. Teeth whitening also leaves the teeth more vulnerable to staining, so it is vital to make sure you understand the side effects of this process.
If you need help with teeth whitening in Phoenix or Scottsdale, AZ contact our cosmetic dentist office at Studio B Smiles.
