Ever noticed your teeth changing and lacking the luster it was so fond of? You are not alone. Teeth are susceptible to various changes as you age, and embracing whitening procedures will help in returning your confidence in smiling or laughing.
With the growing concern in aesthetic appearance in this modern society, the need for teeth whitening is becoming a popular trend.
But what causes teeth to be stained? Several factors can cause this:
Dietary considerations: Different foods and drinks may cause the teeth to stain and develop a tint other than the normal white color. For instance, coffee, dark drinks, and some fruits and vegetables may cause a persistent stain on the teeth.
Poor dental hygiene: The lack of consistent oral hygiene may lead to tooth decay, and discoloration as the plaque on the teeth hardens to form calculus, which stains the tooth enamel.
Tobacco: Smoking stains the teeth due to the presence of nicotine.
Disease: Gum diseases from childhood or adulthood can lead to stained teeth. Trauma n the gums are also a precursor of the same.
Medications: There is evidence that certain medications lead to stained teeth, for example, chemotherapy or antihistamines.
Genetics: This may affect how white some individual’s teeth are, as opposed to others.
Teeth whitening procedures are, therefore, a common occurrence, and the need for teeth whitening products and procedures is a welcome advantage. However, there are factors to consider when opting for teeth whitening.
Teeth whitening can include an in-office procedure or the use of teeth whitening products often found over the counter or as prescribed by the dentist.
An in office whitening procedure entails consultation from the dentist, which considers individual dental and medical history. This seeks to prevent any adverse reaction from the whitening products and ensures the procedure considers the type and extent of the stain and possible considerations of whitening. A consultation also considers the teeth formation and helps the dentist formulate a possible plan for treatment. For instance, custom teeth trays may be structured to fit perfectly into the individual’s mouth. The dentist also checks for any irritability with whitening products and advises on the right ones to use.
After that, the dentist employs safety measures that seek to protect the gum and cavities from bleaching. A protective gel is applied directly on the gum, or a rubber shield is donned to protect the whitening product from contacting the gum tissue, which can cause sensitivity or gum disease.
Dentists can seek to apply in-office teeth whitening products to the teeth, containing hydrogen peroxide levels of up to 45%. This is higher than over the counter whitening products and offers more longevity and strength. The dentist's custom teeth trays also take into consideration individual teeth fittings to provide a good reach of the whitening products in the teeth.
The whitening agent used on the teeth can remain for up to twenty minutes, depending on the tooth stain's severity. Additional whitening sessions may be advised in cases of severe tooth stain.
In-office whitening products are usually stamped with the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of acceptance, which guarantees they have met the required safety standards.
Various teeth whitening products can be embraced and used as opposed to professional intervention. However, it is important to note the tooth stain's severity to decide which whitening procedure best works for you.
The use of whitening toothpaste is a common use for removing surface stains. These whitening toothpaste, however, only have mild abrasives that aren't deep. However, different dental industry players are developing new and improved whitening kinds of toothpaste, which offer results after a week's usage.
Whitening rinses or mouthwash also contain hydrogen peroxide, which whitens teeth. These washes offer visible results after twelve weeks of use with consistent use. Hydrogen peroxide is used for intense short term teeth whitening as it acts fast on the stain, breaking it down promptly. However, using plain hydrogen peroxide without dentist supervision may lead to tooth sensitivity.
Over the counter, whitening gels are clear and applied directly to the teeth. This prompts teeth whitening as the chemicals work on the stained tooth enamel, with results visible after a few days. For successful results, the gel should be applied daily as per the recommended instructions for around four months to get the perfect white teeth.
Whitening strips can also be found over the counter and are clear flat strips coated with peroxide gel. These offer the same results after directed and consistent usage, and they are applied to the teeth for a specific time.
Custom teeth trays are also used in conjunction with teeth whitening gel to treat stained teeth. A dentist customizes these trays to fit into the mouth. The teeth trays seek to push the whitening gel into every corner and crevice of the teeth, which might seem impossible if applied the gel directly to the tooth as not every corner is covered. The teeth tray also ensures the gel remains in contact with the teeth for long periods without being washed away and prevents the gel from touching the gum tissue.
Consulting a professional dentist before purchasing over the counter teeth whitening options is always encouraged. This reduces the likelihood of having tooth sensitivity or gum decay due to prolonged or incorrect dosages of the product.
Most teeth whitening products do not treat natural tooth stains from birth or stain from fillings, crowns, or replacements. In the event of several restorations, it is best to consider alternative teeth alterations such as veneers or crowns to prevent uneven whitening.
The teeth whitening procedure considers the patient's age to prevent premature teeth whitening procedures, which can result in future tooth sensitivity.
It is important to employ adequate oral hygiene even after teeth whitening procedures to ensure plaque doesn't build-up, resulting in stains. Regular brushing and flossing of the teeth will go a long way to maintain bright, strong, and healthy teeth.
When opting for over the counter products, it is best to do research and check for product reviews before purchasing. In the event of irritability or sensitivity, it is advisable to stop using the product.
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