Your goal: A white, bright smile. But what whitening option is best for you? Here, we explain the teeth whitening options available to you and the effects they can have.
What is teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a dental procedure designed to lighten your teeth's colour using peroxide-based bleaching agents. As the treatment progresses, oxygen acts on your tooth enamel, whitening it.
What are my options for teeth whitening?
Today, you have a number of options for whitening your teeth. It can be difficult to choose the right one, and each has its advantages and can offer positive results. As with any other procedure, there are also some disadvantages to each.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
The most effective whitening procedures are done by a dentist in their office. This is because whitening agents in the gel used by dentists is stronger and produces a more effective result than over-the-counter products.
The procedure will usually take about an hour. The dentist will use a whitening solution to remove stains and lighten the colour of your teeth. This yields more efficient results than at-home solutions, which can take anywhere from days to weeks to work.
At-Home Professional Teeth Whitening
These take-home options are supervised by your dentist. At the initial visit, they will take an impression of your teeth to create custom trays.
You'll take the whitening trays home and conduct the whitening process yourself. You'll wear the gel for 30 minutes to a few hours each day for anywhere from 1 to 3 weeks.
The whitening solution will gradually remove surface stains from your teeth and lighten their natural colour.
Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste works to remove surface stains and whiten your teeth, However, remember that whitening toothpaste won't affect the natural colour of your teeth. They won't be able to lighten stains that penetrate below the surface.
Toothpaste that strengthens enamel can defend your teeth from cavities and protect your enamel from damage. This can prevent stains in the first place.
Whitening Strips
These small strips are coated with a peroxide gel. When you apply them to your teeth, the coating removes surface stains and lighten the colour of your teeth.
You usually apply whitening strips daily for 2 to 3 weeks and keep them on for 30 minutes. Since these products only have a bit of peroxide, they will achieve subtle results.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin strips of porcelain fixed to the front of your teeth to improve their colour, shape and symmetry,
If only a few of your teeth are discoloured, veneers may be a practical solution for evening their colour.
How do I know which are the best teeth whitening products?
The best teeth whitening treatment for you depends on many factors, from your preference to the time you have for the treatment in your schedule. It may be worth looking up reviews online from people who have opted for the option you're considering.
Are you wondering which teeth whitening options would be right for you?
A dentist will be able to examine your smile and suggest whitening treatments that would be suitable for you.
