Are you shy to show your teeth?
Smile is the first thing anyone will notice about you. Stained or yellow teeth affects your smile, teeth whitening is the solution.
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure which lightens your teeth color and removes dental stains and discoloration.
Whitening products contain bleaching agents which break stain into smaller pieces and makes your teeth brighter.
What are different types of bleaching?
There are 3 types of bleaching
In-office bleaching
At-home bleaching
Over the counter bleaching products
IN-OFFICE/ CHAIRSIDE BLEACHING
This procedure is performed by your dentist.
This is faster and more effective form of bleaching.
Some dentists may use heat,light or both to get better results.
This procedure is done in single sitting which may take 1-2 hour.
AT-HOME BLEACHING
This procedure is done by patient at home.
Dentist will give custom made trays to the patient.
Dentist will give instructions to patient on how to use tray with bleaching agent and for how long.
This procedure may take longer ranging from few days to few weeks.
OVER THE COUNTER BLEACHING PRODUCTS
Different options are available such as :
Whitening toothpastes, gels, powders
Strips and trays.
These products are less effective.
Are over the counter products equally good as dentist recommended products?
Dentist recommended products are certified by respective dental associations like American dental association. However over the counter products safety and efficacy cannot be totally watched.
Some patients may experience teeth sensitivity after the procedure, but it is temporary and gradually subsides.
How to maintain teeth after bleaching?
Rinse your mouth after every meal.
Brush twice daily.
Use whitening toothpaste.
Floss regularly to remove plaque.
Have chewing gums.
Have a smiling day!!
Author : Dr. Megha Malhotra (BDS)