Stained and discolored teeth can dull your smile and negatively impact your overall appearance. Also, discolored teeth can affect your oral health due to increased tooth sensitivity, and risk of tooth decay. The stains remaining on your teeth are essentially bacteria that stay in the mouth and cause gum disease and tooth loss.
In this article, we have discussed teeth whitening offered by the family dentist in Shelby Township, MI, and their benefits in detail. So keep reading!
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure that can significantly improve the appearance of your teeth. Over time, teeth can become stained or discolored due to various factors such as coffee, tea, wine, smoking, and poor oral hygiene. Whitening your teeth can boost your self-confidence and enhance your smile.
What are the types of teeth whitening?
Based on the method of teeth whitening, there are several types, including:
- Professional teeth whitening: This is the most effective way to whiten your teeth. A dentist will apply a high-concentration whitening gel to your teeth and activate it with a special light. The treatment can be customized to achieve the desired shade.
- At-home teeth whitening kits: These kits are available at drugstores and contain a lower concentration of whitening agents. They come with trays or strips that you apply to your teeth for a specified time.
- Whitening toothpaste: Using a whitening toothpaste can help remove surface stains and gradually whiten your teeth over time.
How does teeth whitening work?
Teeth whitening products contain active agents like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the tooth enamel and break down stains. The oxygen released by the whitening agents oxidizes the stains, making them less visible.
What are the benefits of teeth whitening?
Currently, teeth whitening procedures are trending worldwide. Let’s explore some of the key benefits of teeth whitening. The procedure:
Imparts a sparkling smile: Teeth whitening can instantly brighten your smile with little to no side effects.
Boosts self-esteem: Teeth whitening can improve your teeth shade and help enhance your smile, boosting your self-esteem.
Improves oral health: This procedure can reinforce the health and strength of your teeth and decrease the likelihood of cavities and gum disease.
Offers a customized solution: Teeth whitening is highly customized for your mouth and individual needs to match your preferences. The procedure is considered to be more cost-effective than veneers and also helps hide your discolored teeth.
Offers precise results: When performed by a skilled dentist, this procedure can make your teeth many shades lighter and is tailored to your specific needs, offering long-lasting results.
Is a quick procedure: Your teeth can be whitened in a one-hour visit, avoiding repeated applications of messy over-the-counter kits.
Does not require lab work: Unlike other smile enhancement procedures like veneers, teeth whitening does not require tedious lab work.
Offers long-lasting results: With proper oral hygiene routine care at home, the results of teeth whitening procedures can be long-lasting.
Is a safe treatment: The professional teeth whitening process is safe since it is carefully monitored by a trained dental specialist to protect your oral cavity from damage.
Are there any side effects involved in teeth whitening?
Although teeth whitening is a simple, safe, and effective procedure when performed by a skilled dentist, and after adopting all the necessary precautions, you may experience some mild side effects that are usually temporary and resolve gradually. These include:
- Sensitivity: Whitening products can cause tooth sensitivity, which usually subsides after treatment.
- Gum irritation: Whitening agents can irritate the gums if not applied properly.
- Over-the-counter product limitations: At-home kits may not be as effective as professional treatments.
- Maintenance: Whitening results require maintenance to prevent stains from reappearing.
Final note
Teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to improve the appearance of your teeth. This is a common dental procedure opted by millions globally to treat unappealing stains appearing on your teeth surfaces. With various options available, you can choose the best method for your needs. Professional teeth whitening offers the most dramatic results, while at-home kits and whitening toothpaste provide more convenient alternatives. Remember to maintain good oral hygiene habits to extend the longevity of your whitening results. Consult with a dentist to determine the best teeth whitening option for you.
