Your teeth are more than just functional – they’re also a big part of your appearance. A bright, white smile can boost your self-confidence and make you look healthier and younger. But over time, teeth naturally become stained or darkened due to everyday habits such as smoking or drinking coffee. If you're unhappy with the color of your teeth, it may be worth considering teeth whitening procedures.
Teeth whitening options vary widely, ranging from at-home treatments you can do yourself to professional procedures carried out in a dentist's office. Let’s take a look at the most common types:
Choosing the right treatment depends on factors such as your budget, level of discoloration, and desired results. If you want fast, dramatic results, in-office or chairside bleaching might be best for you. However, these options can be more expensive and may cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
On the other hand, professional-grade take-home kits are often cheaper and provide gentler whitening over a longer period. They're also convenient since you can use them at home on your schedule. However, they require more time to achieve desired results compared to in-office treatments.
Once you've achieved your desired level of whiteness, it's essential to maintain proper oral hygiene to preserve your new smile. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Avoid foods and beverages that can cause staining, like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits or vegetables.
If you have any existing dental restorations such as crowns or veneers, they may need to be replaced after whitening since the bleaching agents won't affect them. Regular dental checkups are crucial too – not only do they help catch potential issues early, but they can also provide professional cleanings to remove surface stains and maintain your teeth's sparkling appearance.
By Perfect Smiles of Fairfield
March 6, 2024
Teeth whitening is a process that removes stains and lightens the color of your teeth. It's not an alternative to proper dental care, but rather it complements regular brushing and flossing.
Most teeth whitening products use peroxide-based bleaching agents. When these chemicals come into contact with the stains on your teeth, they break down the compounds causing the discoloration and lighten your tooth enamel in the process.
Genetics play a role in determining your natural tooth color, but lifestyle habits such as smoking or consuming dark-colored foods and beverages (coffee, red wine) can also contribute to staining. Poor oral hygiene can also result in yellowish plaque buildup on the surface of your teeth.
There are several options for teeth whitening, including at-home treatments and in-office procedures. Let’s take a look at the most common types:
Choosing the right treatment depends on factors such as your budget, level of discoloration, and desired results. If you want fast, dramatic results, in-office or chairside bleaching might be best for you. However, these options can be more expensive and may cause temporary tooth sensitivity.
On the other hand, professional-grade take-home kits are often cheaper and provide gentler whitening over a longer period. They're also convenient since you can use them at home on your schedule. However, they require more time to achieve desired results compared to in-office treatments.
Once you've achieved your desired level of whiteness, it's essential to maintain proper oral hygiene to preserve your new smile. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily.
Avoid foods and beverages that can cause staining, like coffee, tea, red wine, and dark-colored fruits or vegetables. Regular dental checkups are crucial too – not only do they help catch potential issues early, but they can also provide professional cleanings to remove surface stains and maintain your teeth's sparkling appearance.