Is Professional Teeth Whitening for Me?

This is a question that we can’t answer for you. We can give you some protocol and facts to help you make the decision on whether you wish to attempt teeth whitening at home or if you wish to see your dentist and let the professional do the work. We’ll first look at what causes the discoloration of your teeth and why you most likely are a candidate to pursue the process. We’ll show you the differences with over the counter products versus having the process supervised by your dentist and then proper oral hygiene moving forward from having your teeth whitening completed.

Are you a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?

Anyone with their permanent teeth is basically a candidate. There are three categories defining the discoloration of your teeth. The first is extrinsic discoloration. This occurs to all of us that enjoy food or drink that stain our teeth. This includes colas, coffee, red wine and tea to name but few. Dark fruits, beets, tomato sauce and soy sauce give you an example of food that can stain. Any and all tobacco products will do the same. The second category is intrinsic discoloration. Some medications can thin the enamel and allow the dentin to show through. Finally, the third category is simply aging, or a combination of both. So, unless you have gum disease or have intrinsic discoloration that teeth whitening won’t help, most of us can benefit.

Over the Counter versus a Professional Teeth Whitening

You can start at home with whitening toothpastes or a mouth-rinse with a bleaching agent. There is chewing gum available to use after meals that more so prevents staining by coating the teeth. There are whitening strips with a small amount of peroxide gel that you apply to your teeth. Also available over the counter are kits that include mouth-guard like trays in which you deliver the peroxide bleaching agent for 30-60 minutes a day for several weeks.

The two biggest differences in considering a dental office conducting your teeth whitening is that of proper supervision. They will protect your gums and apply a bleaching agent for 15 minutes. The agent is washed away and the process is repeated. Only several applications in one sitting and you will be finished. The second biggest difference is the concentration of the bleaching agent. Over the counter products legally deliver a concentration of 3% to 20% of peroxide were in the dental office the dentist is able to use a product with 15% to 43% concentration. This huge difference speaks to the amount of time needs for successful results.

Proper Care to keep your Teeth White

Once you have successfully had your teeth whitening completed your dentist will review and consult with you regarding both your diet and your oral hygiene habits. By properly brushing your teeth twice a day, slowly, and flossing at least once you can remove the acids left on the enamel surface that creates plaque and attacks the tooth. Invest in your smile and have your teeth whitening done by your dentist.

More Information On Teeth Whitening : Laser Teeth Whitening vs Trays