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Teeth whitening is a cosmetic dental procedure which lightens the color of teeth. In fact, it is one of the most common dental procedures. Usually, it involves bleaching to remove stains. If you want a brighter smile, you can discuss it with your dentist and get a teeth-whitening treatment. Before trying out any teeth whitening options, it is recommended to seek the opinion of an oral health care experts about what option will be best for your teeth.
Common Causes of Discoloration
Teeth discoloration can be a result of many different factors. One of the most significant reasons, however, is the food and drinks you consume. Items such as tea, coffee, red wine, berries and soda discolor teeth if consumed frequently for a long time. There are also some antibiotics like Tetracycline which can stain your teeth. Smoking, too, discolors your teeth. Even though these contribute to the change in color, you must keep in mind that color of a smile is determined by genetics and some people have naturally yellowish teeth.
Common Teeth Whitening Options
This is a very popular procedure and the market has a wide range of treatment options. If you want white teeth, you can either choose to go to the dentist or use a kit to whiten teeth at the comfort of own home.
In-office Teeth Whitening
If you choose to go to a dentist’s office, it is more likely that the procedure will yield better. It will also take less time compared to the at-home whitening alternative. The in-office procedure is preferred by many as they can see the results immediately.
One of the most popular techniques used by dentists is Laser Bleaching. It entails application of a concentrated peroxide gel onto teeth. You will be expected to wait for an hour with your mouth wide open, while argon light is shined onto the paste. A chemical reaction takes place and teeth become lighter as a result.
At-home Teeth Whitening
If you are not comfortable going to a dentist, there are DIY options for you. You may select from a wide range of over-the-counter products such as trays with whitening gel and whitening strips. It is recommended to seek suggestions from your dentist regarding which option would be best for you. The most commonly used technique is a mouth tray with strong bleaching gel.
If you select at-home teeth whitening, you must carefully read and follow application instructions provided on the packaging or dentist.
Cost of Teeth Whitening
Depending on which method you select, the cost of the procedure varies immensely. It is obvious that in-office teeth whitening is the most expensive option. It can cost a few hundred dollars. On the other hand, using over the counter products is a much cheaper alternative. Prices of these products start from $30.
Maintenance After the Procedure
The results of teeth whitening are not permanent. You can expect it to last a few months or about a year. You can prolong the effect by avoiding smoking, and food and drinks that may stain your teeth. Even if you eat something like soda or berries, brush your teeth afterward.
Varied Results Between People
It is very likely that results on the same teeth whitening procedure will be different on 2 people. If you don’t get the result you expect, you have to understand that all teeth do not respond equally to whitening.
If teeth have a yellow shade, it will be fairly easy to whiten. However, teeth with gray tone are almost impossible to whiten. Your dentist should be able to recommend what is best for you.
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