It’s no secret that many people wish they had brighter teeth. Teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it can make a dramatic difference in the appearance of someone’s smile. But there are a lot of questions about teeth whitening, and we’re here to answer them! In this blog post, we will discuss what teeth whitening is, how it is performed, what types of stains it can remove, and whether or not it is safe. We’ll also talk about how long the results from teeth whitening last and how to maintain your newly whiter smile!
What is teeth whitening and how is it performed?
Teeth whitening is a process of lightening the natural color of your teeth. It is typically performed using a bleaching agent, such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. These agents work by breaking down the stains on your teeth and making them lighter in color.
There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-office and at-home. In-office teeth whitening is performed by a dentist and usually takes one to two hours. At-home teeth whitening is done using a bleaching kit that you can purchase from your dentist or over the counter. These kits typically contain a bleaching gel and mouth tray. The gel is applied to the mouth tray, which is then placed over your teeth. At-home teeth whitening usually takes longer to achieve the desired results since the bleaching agent is weaker than the one used by your dentist.
What types of stains can teeth whitening remove?
Teeth whitening can remove most types of stains, including those caused by coffee, tea, red wine, tobacco, and food. It can also remove some types of surface stains that have been resistant to brushing. However, teeth whitening will not remove all types of stains. For example, it cannot remove stains that are caused by medications, such as tetracycline, or dental procedures, such as bonding or veneers. Dental restorations will also not respond to teeth whitening since they are made from dental materials.
Is teeth whitening safe?
Teeth whitening is generally safe when it is performed by a dentist or according to the instructions in an at-home bleaching kit. The bleaching agent used in teeth whitening, hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, simply breaks down into water and is safely absorbed by the body. However, there are some risks associated with teeth whitening. These risks include tooth sensitivity, gum irritation, and temporary changes in the color of your teeth. If you experience any of these side effects, stop whitening your teeth and consult your dentist.
How long do the results from teeth whitening last?
The results from teeth whitening can last for several months to years. However, they will eventually fade as your teeth become stained again. You can prolong the results of your teeth whitening by avoiding foods and beverages that can stain your teeth and by brushing and flossing regularly. Your dentist may also recommend regular touch up sessions to maintain your results.
In Conclusion
In this blog post, we have discussed the four most common questions about teeth whitening: what it is, how it is performed, what types of stains it can remove, and whether or not it is safe. If you’re considering teeth whitening, we hope this blog post has answered some of your questions! If you have any more questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We would be happy to help you achieve the perfect smile!
Dr. Gerald Sisko graduated from Ohio State University College of Dentistry in 1987. He is an active member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and the Akron Dental Society where he is currently holding a council position. He has had the honor and distinction of being awarded “TOP DENTIST” in Akron and Cleveland as well as Northeast Ohio for the last several consecutive years.
