Things You Need to Know Before Trying Professional Teeth Whitening

Many people think that having yellow, discolored teeth can affect the way they carry themselves. A bright smile, after all, can really boost one's self-confidence. It is no wonder why more and more people are turning to teeth-whitening products to achieve those pearly whites.

Some people may be concerned with the chemicals involved in teeth whitening and may opt for the natural way. But for those who are not afraid to bleach their teeth using chemicals, it is recommended to go the professional route of bleaching.

(Photo: pixabay)

What Causes Yellowing of Teeth?

Multiple factors can be attributed to causing teeth to become dull and lose their sparkle. Certain foods can stain your enamel and plaque buildup could also make your teeth look yellow. 

While this type of discoloration can be treated through regular cleaning and whitening remedies, in cases where the enamel has eroded and the dentin underneath is revealed, this would be harder to treat.

There are things that you may want to consider before booking that dental appointment. 

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Things to Consider Prior to Bleaching

The most usual method for teeth whitening is through professional bleaching. The dentist will take scans of your teeth in order to make a custom-made bespoke vacuum formed gel trays where you will fill with a carbamide peroxide gel. This is an active ingredient that gets broken down by oxygen when it reaches the enamel, and as a result, the color of the teeth will lighten.  

While there are people who choose to whiten their teeth at home, it is okay as long as the dental trays and gels were provided by the dentist. If they were bought off the internet, it might contain illegal bleach that can cause permanent teeth or gum damage such as gum recession.

Whitening strips, whitening toothpaste, and charcoal-based cleaners only remove surface stains which can make teeth appear whiter, but they don't actually bleach the teeth like that of professional teeth whitening. 

The gold standard for whitening is the combination of dental chair in-house bleaching and at-home professional tray bleaching. The dental in-house bleaching cannot be used as a stand-alone treatment as it only bleaches the outside enamel. The home kits can provide further bleaching to provide a longer-lasting effect. 

If you are smoking, the teeth will darken and can diminish the results of the bleaching procedure. This is the reason why one should stop smoking at least three weeks prior to the procedure. 

The lasting results of the treatment depend on the individual. For optimum results, it is recommended to continue wearing the whitening trays every day or night for at least 2-3 weeks to ensure the bleach has reached all areas and depths of the teeth. 

To maintain results, it is recommended to stay away from food that can stain the teeth such as coffee/ tea/ red wine, and have regular dental visits to keep your teeth in tiptop shape.

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