Whitening
your teeth is one of the easiest things that can be done
to brighten up your smile and improve your appearance. Studies
have shown that increasing numbers of people are keeping
their natural teeth, thanks to improved hygiene and increased
preventive care. But as teeth age, they naturally darken
a bit. Years of exposure to coffee, tea, red wine, colas
and smoking can stain teeth and make them appear dull.
There are several options available if you're interested
in whitening your teeth. Currently, one of the most popular
procedures is an at-home bleaching technique. This procedure
requires a dental visit, where you'll be fitted for a custom-made
bleaching tray. You'll also receive the whitening gel that's
best for you, as well as thorough instructions for getting
the best results from your at-home whitening system. Usually,
you'll apply the gel to your custom-made tray, and wear it
for two to three hours a day for a week or two; tobacco stains
may take longer to bleach out.
If it's faster results you're after, in-office power whitening
(ZOOM™) is also available. In this procedure,
a whitening solution that's activated by heat and light is
applied in the dental office. Oxygen in the solution penetrates
the hard outer enamel of the tooth and removes the underlying
stains or discoloration. Since enamel is transparent, the
natural, newly-whitened inner tooth will show through.
Power whitening offers effective and quick results; typically,
teeth are whitened significantly in just one visit. For stubborn
stains, it may be necessary to repeat the process, or to
combine power bleaching with at-home whitening sessions.
Results usually last for years, and can be maximized with
regular dental cleanings and periodic professional touch-ups.
Veneers, crowns (caps) and white fillings will not whiten
using any bleaching procedure. That's why an overall aesthetic
treatment plan should be created. This will ensure a smile
that's uniformly white and bright.
Sources - The American Dental Association, The Mayo Clinic,
Caesy Patient Education System |
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