Teeth Whitening Options for an Aesthetic Smile
Many teeth whitening systems and procedures exist, including over-the-counter whitening gels, toothpaste, rinses, trays, and other products.
Before you consider a teeth whitening product or system, you should consult your dentist. The dentist will check if you are eligible for teeth whitening. Some of the factors that hinder you from being a whitening candidate are fillings and dental bonds.
In-Office Teeth Whitening in Phoenix, AZ
For immediate results, you can consider in-office bleaching. With in-office bleaching, your dentist in Phoenix can apply the bleaching agents directly to your teeth or use trays.
He or she can use the bleaching agent with heat or a special laser depending on your condition. If your teeth are severely stained, the dentist can recommend zoom teeth whitening. However, for moderate teeth discoloration, the dentist will only use peroxide-based bleach.
You will see the results right after a 30 to 60 minutes procedure. But if you require more dramatic results, you will have to go for more teeth whitening appointments. This approach is the most effective and fast.
Home-Based Teeth Whitening Options
Apart from in-office treatments, you can also whiten your teeth at home. However, before going for any option, you should consult your dentist first. The dentist will advise you on the best options depending on the severity of the discoloration. He or she can also prescribe you some of the products you can use to whiten your teeth.
Unlike in-office treatments, these methods do not show their results immediately. These treatments include:
Toothpaste
All kinds of toothpaste are mildly abrasive, thus removes surface stains. Whitening toothpaste contains chemical agents such as carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide that remove stains and help in lightening the color deep into your teeth. However, prescriptions in your dentist’s office can make your teeth’s shade look eight times lighter.
Over-The-Counter Whitening Gels
Whitening gels are viscous, clear, peroxide-based liquids that your dentist instructs you to apply directly on your teeth using small brushes. The dentist or the manufacturer will provide you with instructions depending on the strength of hydrogen peroxide. Before achieving dramatic results, you will have to use the gels continuously for four months.
Other than whitening gels, you can use strips. Whitening strips are virtually invisible, thin strips that contain hydrogen peroxide, bleaching agents. Similar to gels, strips show dramatic results after four months.
Mouth Rinses
Most of the time, we use mouth rinses for fresh breath and preventing gum diseases. However, in recent times, some rinses contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps in whitening your teeth.
The manufacturer instructs you to swish the rinse for 60 seconds two times a day before brushing your teeth. For satisfactory, you will have to use the rinses repetitively for 12 weeks. However, they might not be adequately effective since they are in contact with your teeth for a short period.
Tray-Based Whiteners
To get tray-based whitening treatments, you can either purchase over-the-counter or from your dentist. Your dentist might initially fit the trays or give you instructions on how you can fit them.
The trays contain hydrogen peroxide bleaches, and dentists recommend you to wear them for a relatively short period. Your dentist can instruct you to wear them for some hours a day or full time, depending on your condition. However, you can remove the trays while eating or brushing.
How Long Do the Effects of Teeth Whitening Last?
The effects of teeth whitening are not permanent. If you expose your teeth to factors that cause staining, the effects will not last for more than a month. Also, poor oral hygiene will cause accumulation of plaque on your teeth’s surface leading to discoloration. Those who practice good oral hygiene can go for more than a year before a re-touch or another procedure.
Who Is Not Eligible for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening will be risky or less effective in some situations. Dentists don’t recommend bleaching for children under the age of 16 since their pulp chambers are enlarged. Also, pregnant women and people allergic to peroxides are not eligible for teeth whitening.
Finding a Dentist near Me
Do your teeth require whitening in Phoenix? At Dental by Design, you will find experienced dentists who will ensure you get satisfactory results and leave you with an aesthetic smile. If you are not a resident, you can search for a teeth whitening dentist near you.
