Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Does Teeth Whitening Work For Everybody

We are always conscious about our looks and what we wear and recently more and more of us are giving a makeover to our teeth. Teeth whitening or bleaching treatments are becoming more widely available. Those in search of that bright white smile come up with some teeth whitening FAQs.

One of the first questions asked is, what does teeth bleaching involve? Well basically it is a procedure where peroxide gel is applied to the teeth or into a device shaped like a mouth guard that covers the teeth. Are there different type of treatment? Yes, there are a few, but the most common ones are as follows: home kits bought from a pharmacy or drugstore, home kits individualized by a dentist, and those performed by a dentist in his surgery.

What are the differences between surgery and home treatments? Well the main difference is the strength of the peroxide gel used. In house treatments use more concentrated mixes which are left on the teeth for short periods of time. The effects are generally quite immediate. In home kits, the concentration is weaker, and the user needs to wear the gel for more prolonged periods over a longer time span. They are generally slower to work, but can also be as effective in the long run.

Is there anyone who should not use the treatments? There are some groups who should definitely avoid them such as pregnant women and children. For those who suffer from certain tooth or gum conditions, it is not recommended that they undergo treatment. Dentists can advise on this.

How white can teeth get? This largely depends on the individual users teeth. They can be very effective for some people and for others there may be no effect at all. Our teeth are unique and dentists can advise on the likelihood of effectiveness in individual cases.

Are there any side effects? The truth is, yes, there can be in some users. The main one is increased sensitivity in the teeth or gums, during the first few days after treatment. This is normally temporary and soon subsides. Some people also encounter shooting pains in their front teeth. Again, this is normally only temporary.

Are the treatments expensive? Some are more costly than others. Of the three main types of bleaching, those done by dentists in the surgery cost the most. Some kits from the pharmacy or drugstore are the cheapest.

Your dentist will be able to provide answers for many of the common teeth whitening FAQs. Of course they are a great resource for anything to do with dental care and have intimate knowledge of individual cases. They will also be able to advise whether of not bleaching is right for you.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Tooth Bleaching Guide

Most people appreciate a bright, white smile. It can have an effect on your entire outlook on life. It may make you appear younger and more vibrant. As you age, each tooth can slowly become discolored from within. No amount of brushing or cleaning will help. Are you considering a new, whiter, smile? Here is a teeth whitening overview to consider.

Bleach

There are differences between a white smile and a bleached white smile. Young people have a naturally white smile. A deep cleaning will help to restore a great deal of the white appearance. However, as you age, tooth enamel can become discolored. The only way for them to be white, is by bleaching. This is accomplished with a peroxide solution. There are three methods for achieving this. None of them will last forever. They have to be periodically repeated.

In office

When you go to the dentist, you can have your smile whitened, professionally. This is the most expensive technique. It is administered by professionals in a controlled environment. They use a stronger concentration of peroxide compounds. It is considerably stronger than the kind that you can purchase on your own.

This gel is placed directly over the tooth enamel. The dentist places a rubber dam over it. This protects the rest of your mouth. You can then swallow comfortably. It also, keeps you from ingesting any of the solution. This method may take more than one application. You may need to return a few times. In another in office method, a laser is used. This usually works well, the first time. Return visits are seldom necessary.

From the dentist

You can purchase an in home kit from your dentist. It has a lower amount of bleach in it. Often times, the kit will include custom made mouth guards. This makes it much more easier to apply. It is much cheaper than having it done in the office.

Over the counter

There is an abundance of over the counter kits. Some are more expensive than others. They are not as powerful as the ones from your dentist. Several different types are available. You may select some with mouth guards or trays. Some have attachable strips. Others may work by painting them on. Many of these kits may only whiten the front of your teeth. The professional methods will whiten all of them.

Summary

Are you searching for a teeth whitening overview? You will find three major types. The most expensive is in the dentist office. It may also be the most effective. You can purchase an in home kit from your dentist. There are over the counter kits, also. The least effective is the over the counter type. It is the most expensive, too. None of the methods whiten permanently. You will need to repeat the process, occasionally.