Teeth whitening is the procedure of bleaching or brightening the shade of your teeth. Teeth whitening can be done either by using certain bleaches that can be bought over the counter at most pharmacies or cosmetic dentists, or it can also be done by undergoing surgical teeth whitening. Teeth whitening is typically desired when teeth get yellowed over time due to many reasons, and this can be done by either changing the color of the underlying tooth enamel or enhancing the intrinsic or extrinsic whiteness of the tooth. Both procedures can have very positive effects on your appearance and can improve your self-esteem and confidence.
How to choose best Types of Teeth Whitening
The most common teeth whitening option is by visiting your dentist in-office. Although this is considered the best procedure, it does come with certain drawbacks such as the use of chemicals, which can be potentially dangerous if mishandled, as well as possible tooth sensitivity when the teeth whitening agent has been applied for the first time. If you are planning to visit your dentist in-office, he or she will usually instruct you on the best toothpaste to use while whitening your teeth, as well as which types of trays and gels are most effective for tooth whitening. This option involves a few more steps and you may need to stay overnight at the dental clinic, but it is one of the most popular ways to get a whiter smile. Most people prefer this method because they do not have to worry about potential sensitivity to the bleaching agent or the discomfort of a dental tray.
If you decide that you would rather go to the cosmetic dentist to get a whiter smile, he or she will use a topical gel based on hydrogen peroxide to whiten your teeth. The dentist can also bleach your tooth enamel with bleaching trays or special cloths that will protect your gums and give you maximum results. If your teeth have stains from tobacco or coffee, your dentist can bleach them white as well. Tooth enamel reacts to whiteners, so you may experience some sensitivity after the treatment, but this is minimal and can easily be remedied with a hot shower or by avoiding the offending substance.