Our teeth tend to yellow with time and age. This can be made worse if you smoke or if you drink a lot of coffee or dark colored soda. Teeth whitening solutions are designed to restore teeth as close as possible to their original, natural white. This can, in turn, increase confidence and self-esteem.
Some over the counter whitening products are so normal now that it's almost impossible to find them without whitening ingredients. For instance whitening toothpaste, which is effective in reducing yellowing over time by removing light surface stains. You can usually get about about 1 shade lighter with this product.
Experts believe that whitening mouthwashes are less effective due to them being in contact with the teeth for such a short amount of time.
Over the counter whitening strips and gels contain one of two bleaches - carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Gels are brushed on with a small brush, while strips are applied to your teeth, usually twice daily. Tray-based whitening systems work the same way and can be bought over the counter or from a dentist.
The downside to over the counter whitening "systems" is the one size fits all approach and the reliance on the patient using them correctly. If they are used irregularly, they will be less effective. Also, there is a very real risk of damage to the gums from exposure to the bleach, causing irritation. As the over the counter whitening trays are not fitted to your teeth, they can, in rare cases, cause permanent tooth damage - which may cost more to fix than any savings from using an over the counter product.
Some people should not whiten their teeth. Children under 16 should not use (or need) whitening products. If you are pregnant or lactating you should wait until after you have weaned the baby. People with sensitive teeth should talk to their dentist first, because the whitening system can cause irritation. Any cavities or gum issues should be treated before whitening, as it can make cavities worse. Also, the whitening materials will not affect fillings, crowns, etc - which can result in uneven whitening that actually makes your teeth look worse.
If all of this is intimidating - then the answer is to talk to your dentist. Although more expensive, you should consider an in-office whitening procedure, properly supervised by your dentist. They can make sure that you will not have any problems from the procedure chosen.
If stains are severe, your dentist may suggest crowns or porcelain veneers. You may also be able to purchase customized trays that are made from impressions of your own teeth. These trays can reduce the risk of tooth and gum damage.
Some over the counter whitening products are so normal now that it's almost impossible to find them without whitening ingredients. For instance whitening toothpaste, which is effective in reducing yellowing over time by removing light surface stains. You can usually get about about 1 shade lighter with this product.
Experts believe that whitening mouthwashes are less effective due to them being in contact with the teeth for such a short amount of time.
Over the counter whitening strips and gels contain one of two bleaches - carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide. Gels are brushed on with a small brush, while strips are applied to your teeth, usually twice daily. Tray-based whitening systems work the same way and can be bought over the counter or from a dentist.
The downside to over the counter whitening "systems" is the one size fits all approach and the reliance on the patient using them correctly. If they are used irregularly, they will be less effective. Also, there is a very real risk of damage to the gums from exposure to the bleach, causing irritation. As the over the counter whitening trays are not fitted to your teeth, they can, in rare cases, cause permanent tooth damage - which may cost more to fix than any savings from using an over the counter product.
Some people should not whiten their teeth. Children under 16 should not use (or need) whitening products. If you are pregnant or lactating you should wait until after you have weaned the baby. People with sensitive teeth should talk to their dentist first, because the whitening system can cause irritation. Any cavities or gum issues should be treated before whitening, as it can make cavities worse. Also, the whitening materials will not affect fillings, crowns, etc - which can result in uneven whitening that actually makes your teeth look worse.
If all of this is intimidating - then the answer is to talk to your dentist. Although more expensive, you should consider an in-office whitening procedure, properly supervised by your dentist. They can make sure that you will not have any problems from the procedure chosen.
If stains are severe, your dentist may suggest crowns or porcelain veneers. You may also be able to purchase customized trays that are made from impressions of your own teeth. These trays can reduce the risk of tooth and gum damage.
About the Author:
Learn more about Potomac Dental Clinic. Stop Potomac Dental Clinic site where you can find out all about Rockville, MD Family Cosmetic Dentistry and what it can do for you.