Teeth Whitening

Tooth whitening is a set of dental procedures that will make the teeth appear whiter, thus guaranteeing a beautiful smile. Some general habits like smoking, drinking tea, coffee, and other beverages can cause stains and discolorations of the teeth. There are several reasons which make people opt for teeth whitening procedures. It is impossible to have pearly white teeth throughout their life. The teeth start discoloring as one starts getting older.

Smoking and drinking alcohol could also be one of the root causes of stained teeth. The bacteria that have hardened into tartar will start accumulating on the teeth, thus affecting the teeth' color. In such situations, teeth whitening is the best option to treat stains and discoloration. Teeth whitening procedures cost very little and also are the best method to get a flawless smile at affordable rates.

What is the procedure involved in teeth whitening?

Professional bleaching is the most common technique for teeth whitening. Before starting the procedure, the dentist will protect the gums with the application of a gel. The teeth are applied with a whitening product on specially made trays that function similarly to mouth guards. The ingredient used in the whitening product is normally hydrogen peroxide. As the ingredients' components start breaking down, the oxygen enters the tooth's enamel and lightens the shade of the tooth's color. The course duration of the whitening procedure is about 3 to 4 weeks. The further course of treatment should be continued at home after the initial application of the bleaching agent. The home treatment will consist of applying the bleaching products for about four weeks extending from half an hour to one hour at a time. 

What should you do to take care of the whitened teeth?

Proper care of the teeth should be taken after undergoing a teeth whitening procedure. The whitening procedure results will depend on a person's eating, drinking, and other oral hygiene habits. Even after the completion of whitening procedures, the teeth are vulnerable to staining from beverages like tea, coffee, red wine, and certain foods. Brushing and rinsing your mouth repeatedly after eating food can help prevent the discoloration of the teeth. There will be reduced chances of plaque build-up on the teeth. Fluoride toothpaste will also help in keeping the bacteria away from the mouth. Regular dental visits should be followed up.

What are the various teeth whitening procedures?

1. In-Office Tooth Whitening:It is a quick method to brighten your teeth. The procedure is performed at a dental clinic in one visit. The bleaching agent is applied to the teeth after a protective gel or rubber shield is used to guard the gums. This bleaching solution is much stronger than at-home kits. The combination of heat and light used also speeds up the whitening process.  
2. At-Home Bleaching:In such procedures, the dentist will provide you with a customized tray for at-home whitening. Further instructions are given to fill the tray with the bleaching solution and for what length of duration. This process may take a longer time to show its effects, but at the same time, it gives you the comfort of having your teeth whitened in the comforts of your home.
3. Whitening Strips:These whitening strips contain a small quantity of the bleaching agent, namely hydrogen peroxide. They are easy to apply with one strip each for the upper and lower set of teeth. With this procedure, the teeth are whitened in three days and convenient for those who want instant results.
4. Laser Whitening: It is one of the latest techniques available for the whitening of teeth. The bleaching agent is activated with the aid of lasers. The procedure is of short duration with instant results. But this type of treatment should be strictly done on the advice of a dentist.

Call us at West Valley Natural Dentistry or schedule an online appointment to know more about Teeth Whitening.