Tooth whitening is one of the most popular dental cosmetic procedures because it is effective and leaves smiles looking bright and white. If your smile has been looking a little dingy, you may be wondering if tooth whitening is the right choice for you. Check out these four frequently asked questions about teeth whitening procedures and products.
Do Over-the-Counter Products Work?
There are over-the-counter products you can purchase from your local pharmacy or grocery store. These products are often plastic strips that sit on the surface of your teeth. There are also over-the-counter trays, which offer better coverage. These products are affordable, costing anywhere between $12 and $60, depending on the product.
The problem with these over-the-counter products is you just don't know what will work and how effectively it will work. Some of the cheaper products may do nothing but waste your time and money. However, even if you choose an expensive one that works, the process is slow. Your teeth are improved shade by shade until you get the desired color.
What About Whitening Toothpaste?
Whitening toothpaste is another option, but it is deceptive. If you choose a whitening toothpaste, there is no chemical or bleaching agent that actually improves the color of your teeth. Instead, whitening toothpastes are simply more abrasive than normal toothpaste. This scrubs the stains away, making it a good product for preventing some discoloration, but it isn't the best for treating current stains.
Whitening toothpaste can help remove stains, but the process is long, and your results are minimal. Another problem with whitening toothpaste is that because it is more abrasive, it may damage weak enamel and allow you to scratch away what little enamel you have left, leaving your teeth vulnerable to decay and sensitive to cold/heat.
Is Professional In-Office Whitening Effective?
Professional in-office whitening is the most effective option, but it is also the most expensive option, costing about $650 per treatment. The price, however, comes with many benefits. For starters, the dentist uses strong bleaching agents to destroy stains fast. Despite this, it is still the safest method because you are under professional dental supervision the entire time.
There is some sensitivity and irritation after an in-office whitening treatment, but you usually only need one treatment to get the shade you want. Keep in mind, however, that tooth whitening doesn't prevent future stains. Your teeth can still become stained when exposed to tea, coffee, wine, etc. Some stains cannot be whitened, even with professional whitening. These include inorganic stains, discoloration from trauma and discoloration from certain antibiotics.
Is There a Cheaper Professional Option?
There is a last option that combines professional treatments with at-home treatments. Instead of buying over-the-counter trays, you can purchase whitening trays from your dentist. These are more powerful than over-the-counter products, and they cost less than in-office whitening.
With these trays, you get professional results in the privacy of your own home. These at-home trays take longer to whitening your teeth than in-office treatments. The exact time it takes to get your desired shade depends on several factors, such as how long you wear the trays and how often you wear them. The more your teeth are exposed, the faster they bleach, but this can lead to sensitivity.
You don't have to hide a dingy smile. With teeth whitening, you can get a beautiful smile quickly and affordably. With so many different types of treatments and products available, you'll find the perfect one for your budget and goals. If you would like more information regarding tooth whitening or other cosmetic dental procedures, contact a cosmetic dentist, like one from Steliotes Dental Spa, in your area today and schedule a consultation.
Share