TEETH WHITENING

All of us yearn for a beautiful smile: Having whiter teeth has now become the norm and aesthetic concern for most patients and there are many possible ways to whiten teeth. The most popular method is the home teeth whitening system which can whiten teeth dramatically. Given that teeth whitening only work on natural tooth enamel, it is important and crucial to consider the replacement of any old fillings, crowns, etc. And the replacement of any restorations will be done after bleaching so they will match the newly bleached teeth.

Teeth whitening is not a one-time activity: Teeth whitening requires periodical corrections because they are not permanent. And so, A touch-up may be required after some years

and more frequently if you smoke, drink coffee, tea, or wine, etc.

Reasons for teeth whitening:

• Fluorosis (excessive fluoridation during tooth development).
• Normal wear of outer tooth layer.
• Stained teeth due to medications (tetracycline, etc.).
• Yellow, brown stained teeth (due to tea and coffee).

Our teeth get discolored because of our intake of some food and drinks and when we smoke or chew tobacco.  

There are a few teeth whitening products, such as gels and strips, that you can use at home.  

How to whiten your teeth? 

There are various ways of whitening your teeth. You can use at-home alternatives like strips or gels that you can buy over the counter.  

Moreover, they are effective and safe. They remove stains on your teeth and make them whiter in the bargain. Place strips on your teeth and leave them that way for the duration suggested.  

Most at-home whitening products contain hydrogen peroxide in one form or the other. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that eliminates particles that could be present in tobacco, tea, coffee, and others, causing teeth to lose their natural color.  

When you use at-home whitening products daily for one week, your teeth become whiter.   

If you don’t want to take chances of whitening teeth at home, visit a dental professional. Dentists use a stronger dose of hydrogen peroxide. Treatments offered by oral healthcare professionals are more effective for longer durations. It is possible to brighten your teeth with just one procedure that dentists carry out.  

These treatments are, however, more expensive than options available at home. 

Are teeth whitening treatments recommended? 

Although teeth whitening can be safe, it is better to consult a dental specialist before opting for it.  

Studies show that products containing hydrogen peroxide may eliminate proteins present in the dentin layer of your teeth. Dentin supports the surface enamel under your teeth. 

It has also been reported that teeth whitening products could cause the surface of your teeth to soften or rough. You should also consider the type of product you are using and if it fits in your mouth well.  

So before opting for teeth whitening treatments, take your dentist’s advice. By brushing and flossing regularly, you will prevent stains from appearing on your teeth, allowing them not to decay and thus remain white.