The Perfect Smile: Teeth Whitening Explained

Everyone wants to have a perfect smile; teeth whitening is the most popular method in cosmetic dentistry that is simple, yet, effective. It can be done in less than one hour and is quite inexpensive too. You can view here the cosmetic treatment options if you want to learn more.

 

Teeth Whitening Overview

Teeth whitening is one of the simplest dental work in cosmetic surgery. Although the procedure is straightforward and could only last for less than one hour, the results are satisfactory and worth the expenses. Not to mention that it’s inexpensive at the very least. We’ll talk about the steps included in this type of dental work, and we’ll also cover the reasons you would benefit from teeth whitening. We are going to summarise the entire process and provide aftercare tips.

 

Different Options for Teeth Whitening

How does it work? The simplest explanation is bleaching. Most teeth whitening agents contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. Both of these bleaches are effective against breaking the stains into tiny pieces, making your teeth look brighter. Here are the options for teeth whitening:

  • Whitening Toothpastes: Teeth whitening kinds of toothpaste are the easiest to access among all the other types of teeth whitening procedures. You can grab one at your local grocery store. All kinds of toothpaste have the ability to clean the surface of your teeth to make it whiter. However, whitening toothpaste is specifically formulated to have more abrasive properties to enhance its effects.

 

  • Dental Clinic Bleaching: A special protective gel will be applied to your gums to protect them before the bleaching process. This procedure can be done in minutes and is typically a single appointment. This dental work is also known as chairside bleaching.

 

  • At-Home Bleaching: Your dentist will provide you with the necessary tools and materials to perform the bleaching on your own. Instructions are also given, and it has to be followed properly. This method is ideal if you want to save time and effort. However, the only drawback is that it takes longer to complete.

 

  • OTC or Over-The-Counter Bleaching Agents: Teeth whitening kits are widely available worldwide, and you can use them anytime. However, you should at least inform your dentist about its contents.

 

Causes of Teeth Discolouration

There are many factors to consider why our teeth change colour. These factors can either be avoided or accepted. Here’s a list of the most common reason why our teeth’s colour degrade:

  • Food and Beverage: the food we eat is probably the most common reason for teeth discolouration. We need to eat and drink every day, and our teeth always take the first contact. Food and drinks with high levels of acidity can greatly affect the colour of our teeth. One example is coffee. Not only does it contain acids, but it also has a dark colour which contributes to the overall discolouration. For some people, coffee provides comfort and relaxation, so it’s difficult to limit consumption.

 

  • Cigarette Smoking: Tar and nicotine are two of the most prominent components of tobacco. These substances make our teeth darker and yellowish, especially when exposed to oxygen. The stains on your teeth from smoking can have a lasting effect. Regular brushing may not be able to remove it.

 

  • Ageing: As we grow older, the enamel in our teeth gets thinner and thinner. Brushing with regular toothpaste also affects our enamel, making the surface of our teeth look more yellowish or brownish in colour.

 

  • Physical Trauma: Damaged teeth are more susceptible to teeth discolouration. The areas that are damaged because of injuries are more likely to become darker in time. Check here how to protect your teeth.

 

  • Tooth Decay: Tooth decay is also one of the most common reasons for teeth discolouration. The infection or abscess causes the teeth to rot and makes the outer and inner surface change colour from white to black. If left untreated, more teeth can be damaged.

 

  • Side-Effects from Medication: Some medicines may trigger teeth discolouration like an antihistamine, antipsychotic drugs, or hypertension medication. Chemotherapy can also cause your teeth to change colour. In some cases, children exposed to medicines like tetracycline with their false teeth may develop teeth discolouration with their permanent teeth.

 

Possible Side-Effects of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening has little known side-effects compared with other dental work. The most common denominator reported by patients that experience the side-effects of teeth whitening is tooth sensitivity. This sensation is normal because of the teeth whitening process. The use of abrasive substance causes the enamel to break that causes the teeth to feel sensitivity. So far, that’s the only reported side effect. That is why we suggest dental work instead of DIY methods of teeth whitening.

 

Other Types of Cosmetic Dentistry Procedures

  • Cleaning
  • Dental Veneers
  • Dental Bonding
  • Dental Fillings
  • Dental Crowns (Click here to see the popular 1-day digital crowns)

 

Conclusion

For a perfect smile, teeth can be treated in more ways than one. Start with good oral hygiene at home, then follow up with regular dentist appointments. The efficiency of the entire procedure has to be a two-way process. You have to observe the right oral hygiene at home, and you have to visit your dentist at least twice a year. If you want to achieve the perfect smile, follow your dentist’s advice at all times.

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