Teeth whitening is a process of using carbamide or hydrogen peroxide to turn the enamel of your teeth a whiter color. There is a wide range of teeth whitening products, some of which can be used at home and others that can only be applied by your dentist. The goal of teeth whitening is to brighten your smile and increase its aesthetic appeal.
Who Might Need Teeth Whitening
If your teeth have yellow-toned stains caused by drinking coffee, tea, or other dark foods and drinks, you may be a good candidate for teeth whitening. The process works best on people who have healthy teeth and no fillings. Your dentist will let you know if the discoloration of your teeth would respond well to the teeth whitening process.
At-home Teeth Whitening Options
There are several options for whitening your teeth at home. Commercially made over-the-counter products may lighten your teeth by one to three shades over a period of several weeks to months. These products include whitening strips, gels, toothpaste, and mouth rinses. You may also obtain a prescription whitening product from your dentist. These products are more effective and involve inserting a gel into trays. You place the trays over your teeth according to the product’s instructions.
In-office Teeth Whitening
An in-office teeth whitening procedure usually only requires one visit to the dentist. The dentist will place a protective gel on your gums. The whitening bleach is inserted into custom trays, and these trays are then placed over your teeth for a duration of 30 to 60 minutes. Some bleaches don’t require the use of trays and instead rely upon a laser to activate the ingredients.
Call Kesteven Dental Care Studio today to schedule an appointment or learn more about teeth whitening.
