What Everybody Ought To Know About Teeth Whitening

When it comes to the subject of teeth whitening, there are plenty of misconceptions.  The sad truth is most people are woefully misinformed or under-informed about this important cosmetic dental treatment.

Here is a look at exactly what you need to know about teeth whitening.

Teeth Whitening Can Remedy Stains From Those Tasty Foods and Beverages

Just about everyone loves coffee, red wine, blueberries, tea, chocolate and other foods that are known to stain the teeth.  If you consume enough of these foods, they really can alter the color of your teeth and diminish the quality of your smile. Teeth whitening is here to save the day.  Have your teeth whitened and you will be able to eat all those scrumptious foods without worry that your smile will pay the aesthetic price.

The Basics of Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening works with the use of bleaches like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide.  These bleaches break down stains on the teeth into smaller portions, reducing the color's concentration.  The result of bleaching the teeth is a set of stunning white and bright chompers you will not hesitate to show in public settings.  Teeth whitening is particularly effective on yellow teeth. However, it is not very effective on teeth that have browned or greyed over time.  It is also worth noting teeth whitening will not work on dental caps, crowns, fillings or veneers.

Approaches to Teeth Whitening

The most effective means of whitening your teeth is with an in-office treatment.  Have your teeth bleached chairside and you will walk out the same day with noticeably whiter teeth.  The dentist adds a protective rubber shield or gel to your gums so they are not contacted by the bleaching agent.  The bleach is then applied. A laser or light might also be used to improve the whitening agent's impact.

Others opt for whitening toothpaste that can be purchased over-the-counter at stores.  This toothpaste tends to be safe yet nowhere near as effective as professional teeth whitening done at the office. There are also countless at-home teeth whitening kits you can buy at the store.  The most effective of such kits have nearly a dozen whitening trays for the upper and lower teeth featuring a gel solution that is 10 percent hydrogen peroxide. These trays are placed on the arches of the mouth for an hour each day.  They allegedly have the potential to whiten the teeth upwards of six shades lighter. Whitening strips are also available over-the-counter yet they are also generally thought to be inferior to in-office teeth whitening and other solutions like at-home teeth whitening kits.

Teeth Whitening is Safe

Teeth whitening does not pose a risk to your teeth.  However, if you abuse teeth whitening products, they have the potential to cause harm.  Use these solutions in the manner instructed and they really will lift some of the stains off your teeth. Opt for a custom-fitted tray from your dentist and you will have no concerns regarding safety.  The dentist will do everything possible to protect your gums and the rest of your mouth while whitening those chompers to create the smile of your dreams.

Please call GK Dental PC today at (617) 826-6075!