Teeth whitening is the process of removing stains and discolorations from the surface of the teeth. It works by exposing the underlying cracks in the enamel, allowing these to be cleaned out. While many cracks in the enamel are quickly filled back with saliva, others are filled with organic debris. There are two main types of staining: oxidation staining and organic staining.
In-office whitening
In-office teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures today. This method involves a high concentration of bleaching gel applied to the teeth under close supervision. The bleaching gel is safe for most people and can produce immediate results. The procedure is also effective for people who have sensitive teeth or gums. A dentist will use desensitized to minimize gum sensitivity.
In-office teeth whitening is generally less expensive than over-the-counter whiteners. It can take as little as one hour for the treatment. The procedure is also quicker than at-home bleaching kits. Home whitening products typically take between two to four weeks to produce noticeable results. It’s also more convenient and less expensive than a professional procedure.
Compared to at-home whitening, in-office teeth whitening is safe and can produce a range of shades in one appointment. Many people experience several shades of improvement after the treatment, making it a great value. Moreover, many dentists consider in-office teeth whitening to be completely safe. However, some people should not undergo this treatment if they’re under 13 years of age or pregnant or lactating.
Side effects
One of the side effects of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. This can occur within a few hours after the procedure and may range in intensity from mild to moderate. In extreme cases, it may cause a continuous dull ache. This is caused by the bleaching agent penetrating the tooth surface and dehydrating it during the bleaching process. However, these side effects are generally temporary and will subside on their own within 48 hours. If the symptoms persist, you should contact your dentist. He can assess the extent of the problem and suggest the best treatment.
Some side effects of teeth whitening include increased sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures. While the degree of sensitivity is different among individuals, people with sensitive teeth are likely to experience more pain. These side effects can be avoided by following a few tips. First, avoid drinking colored beverages and wearing colored cosmetics for a week after the treatment.
Precautions
Teeth whitening is a common and effective way to brighten up a smile, but there are a few precautions you must take. For example, you should avoid acidic food or drinks for 48 hours after the procedure. These types of foods can damage enamel and stain teeth. Instead, opt for calcium-rich foods.
If you are using a home teeth whitening kit, it is important to follow the directions provided by the dentist to keep your teeth healthy. Certain foods can stain teeth, such as citrus fruit juices, and some sour foods. While many sour foods have little acidity, they contain pigments that can stain teeth. Sour fruits like lemons, oranges, and mandarin are acidic and can stain your new white smile. Furthermore, sour foods and drinks can cause cavities and tooth erosion, so they must be avoided.
It’s essential to avoid drinks and foods that stain teeth, and use straws to avoid letting liquids stain your teeth. Also, avoid carbonated beverages, which strip your teeth of enamel. Also, dark sodas and coffee may leave stains. Alcoholic drinks, including white wine, are acidic and can also damage the enamel on your teeth.
If you need teeth whitening in Scottsdale or the Phoenix, AZ area contact our team at Studio B Smiles for an appointment.
