2 Options For Whitening Your Teeth
Posted on: 10 February 2016
Do you feel self-conscious about showing those not-so-pearly whites when you smile? Teeth may start out white but can become stained over time by drinking dark beverages, such as coffee, tea and wine. In addition, cigarettes and chewing tobacco can stain your teeth. Aging also causes teeth to darken as the enamel wears thinner, showing the yellow dentin underneath.
If your teeth have become stained or you're just not satisfied with their shade, there are great options available to brighten up your smile:
In-office Whitening
If you decide to undergo an in-office treatment, you can expect a beautiful smile by the time you leave the dentist's office. In office treatments are performed by a dental professional, so you can expect great results in a short amount of time. Still, the length and number of visits needed to achieve your optimal shade depend on how badly your teeth are stained and how white you want your smile.
The treatment is simple: a whitening solution is applied to your teeth, and a bright light is used to activate the chemicals, leaving you with a beautiful smile.
Whitening from Home
There are many options for whitening your teeth from home. They range from gel trays, strips paint-on formulas or whitening toothpaste and mouthwash.
Check with your dentist before trying a method from home. He or she will help you find the method that is best for your teeth. Although many at-home products are available over-the-counter, some products can even be purchased directly from your dentist's office.
If your dentist recommends a whitening mouth tray, he or she will take impressions of your mouth and create a mouthpiece that fits over your top and bottom teeth. To use the tray, fill it with the whitening gel provided by your dentist and fit it over your teeth. You may be required to wear the mouthpiece for a prescribed period every day for several weeks.
Side Effects of Whitening
Side effects of whitening can sometimes include sensitive teeth and gums. It is normal to have sensitivity after whitening. Use tooth sensitivity toothpaste, chew gum to increase the flow of your saliva or give your teeth a break before using the treatment again.
After your initial whitening treatments are complete, your dentist may recommend maintenance methods, such as using a special whitening rinse or toothpaste. For more information, contact Picone Dental - Vincent J Picone DDS or a similar location.
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