5 Types of Teeth Whitening Techniques
Teeth whitening is a dental treatment that eliminates stains on your teeth, making them appear whiter and brighter. Teeth discoloration or staining can result from aging, medications, smoking, poor oral hygiene, excessive fluoride, or certain foods and drinks. Stains affect the enamel, the outer layer of your teeth. Most people qualify for teeth whitening, but you may not be an ideal candidate if you have too much dental filling or sensitive teeth. Falls Church teeth whitening primarily focuses on improving your dental look and smile. There are many teeth whitening techniques, and here are some.
- Whitening toothpaste
All kinds of toothpaste contain mild abrasives that help eliminate surface stains. Whitening toothpaste has gentle polishing or chemical substances that enhance the additional effectiveness of discoloration removal. This toothpaste contains hydrogen peroxide, mild abrasives, and carbamide peroxide that whiten your teeth. After treatment, it may take two to six weeks to see the outcomes, but they last for about three to four months.
- Over-the-counter whitening strips and gels
Teeth whitening gels are clear and contain hydrogen peroxide. You apply them directly on the affected teeth using a small brush. Instructions may vary depending on the strength of the peroxide. You can see results of whitening gels within a few days, but the outcomes last about four months. You must use most gels consistently for ten to fourteen days to achieve effective results. Teeth whitening strips are thin and hardly noticeable. They are coated with a peroxide-based gel. You can purchase whitening gels and strips from a pharmacy or your dentist.
- Whitening rinses
Teeth whitening rinses involve swishing the solution around your mouth for about one minute twice a day before brushing your teeth. Like most mouthwashes, whitening rinses freshen your breath and reduce dental plaque and gum infections. Most whitening rinses contain hydrogen peroxide, which helps remove stains. Rinses are more effective than over-the-counter whitening products because they come into contact with your teeth better.
- Tray-based teeth whiteners
Tray-based teeth whiteners involve filling a mouth guard-like tray with a gel whitening solution that you fit over your teeth. The gel contains a peroxide-bleaching agent that removes discoloration. You wear the guard several hours daily throughout the night for four weeks or more. The period you use tray-based teeth whiteners depends on the extent of discoloration and your end goal. You can buy tray-based teeth whiteners from a pharmacy or your dentist.
- In-office whitening
In-office is the quickest teeth whitening technique. It involves your dentist applying strong whitening agents like highly concentrated hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide directly over your teeth. The dentist uses the treatment alongside heat or laser therapy to achieve maximum results within one treatment session. In-office whitening gives long-lasting results, lasting for about one to three years. Ensure you observe correct oral hygiene to maintain your results for a prolonged period.
Teeth whitening is a dental treatment that removes stains from your teeth, leaving them whiter and brighter. It involves techniques like whitening toothpaste, over-the-counter strips and gels, whitening rinses, tray-based tooth whiteners, and in-office whitening. Schedule an appointment at Gentle Touch Dental PC for teeth whitening to brighten your smile.