Bright and white teeth are everyone’s asset. Not only do they give you confidence but also depicts overall good health. However, not everyone has a bright and healthy smile due to discoloured and stained teeth. Teeth whitening or bleaching is a cosmetic dental procedure that removes the discolouration and stains.
What causes stained teeth?
Teeth can lose their natural brightness for a multitude of reasons, including dietary habits, aging, certain medications, and lifestyle choices. This often results in discoloured or stained teeth, impacting one’s confidence. Fortunately, various strategies exist to address this concern. Teeth whitening, also known as dental bleaching, is a prevalent cosmetic procedure specifically designed to lift these stains and lighten the shade of the teeth. Beyond professional treatments, there are also practices and habits that can contribute to maintaining a brighter smile.
Types and Causes of Tooth Discoloration
Tooth discoloration is broadly categorized into two main types: extrinsic stains and intrinsic stains. Extrinsic stains manifest on the outer surface of the tooth enamel, often resulting from dietary pigments and certain lifestyle habits. In contrast, intrinsic stains develop within the tooth’s internal structure, affecting the dentin, which lies beneath the enamel.
A range of factors contributes to these discolorations. Common causes include the consumption of staining agents like coffee, tea, and the use of tobacco products. Other contributing elements can involve genetic predispositions, the natural process of aging, dental trauma, or underlying tooth decay. Additionally, certain medications such as antibiotics (particularly during tooth development), and excessive exposure to fluoride, can also lead to intrinsic staining.
Methods of Teeth Whitening: Options for Discolored Teeth
A variety of methods are available for bleaching stained teeth, ranging from readily accessible over-the-counter products to professional in-office treatments. Common at-home solutions include whitening toothpastes, gels applied via mouthpiece trays, and whitening rinses.
These products typically utilize active bleaching agents such as carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide, which work to break down and lift stains from the tooth surface.
For those seeking more dramatic and immediate results, professional in-office teeth whitening offers a potent option. This procedure often begins with a thorough oral examination to determine suitability and tailor the approach. During the treatment, a protective barrier is applied to safeguard the gums.
A concentrated whitening gel is then carefully applied directly to the teeth, often activated by specialized laser or LED light to accelerate the bleaching process. This activation enhances the gel’s efficacy, allowing for significant stain removal and noticeable brightening, often in a single visit. While strong bleaching agents are used, the procedure is conducted under professional supervision to ensure safety and comfort.
DentalX secret to whiter teeth
We use Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed to give clients sparkling and radiant smiles. The Zoom Whitening procedure is the #1 patient-requested whitening brand. The product whitens teeth up to eight shades in just one procedure. Whether you have dark, grayish, blue-gray, yellowish or brownish stains Philips Zoom WhiteSpeed and the experienced DentalX personnel will deliver whiter teeth faster. In just one visit, patients are able to get dramatic results with little or no sensitivity experienced.
Benefits of teeth whitening
- It enhances facial aesthetics
- Increases your confidence and makes you feel better about your appearance
- Gives you the impression of youth and happiness
- Makes one more appealing
Parties who do not qualify for whitening procedures
People who have fillings, crowns or any other form of restoration should refrain from bleaching process. Children under 16 years are discouraged from the procedure as the treatment may make their teeth more sensitive. A lactating mother, pregnant lady, and people with gum disease or worn enamel should avoid whitening treatment.
The teeth whitening treatment is a great way of enhancing a person’s look, however, results are not permanent. It is important for one to take proper care of their teeth and avoid things that discolor them. Good oral health is crucial for your overall health. Cleaning, flossing and dental visits are some ways that one can embrace to maintain good oral health.