Teeth whitening has become more popular over recent years. Gone are the days when having stained or bad teeth was the norm. People of all ages and demographics now realise the beneficial effects a healthy, white smile can have, not only for their physical appearance, but for their self-confidence too.
If you are considering having teeth whitening, first, be aware of the importance of choosing a qualified professional. After all, with an expert dentist, your technician will carry out a thorough assessment of the health of your teeth and gums. This is an essential part of a bespoke preparation process to assess your suitability for the type of whitening chemicals they use.
Why would you need teeth whitening?
No matter how careful you are, your teeth will become stained over time. This is due either to the simple fact of ageing or the long-term consumption of certain foods and drinks which cause staining of the teeth. These include:
• Red wine
• Coffee and tea
• Curries or chillies
Smoking is also a major cause of staining and other types of damage, as are some types of medication. All of these factors will, over time, cause the teeth to become darker and yellowed.
Who can carry out teeth whitening?
There are many beauty salons and even mobile services (people who will travel to your home to offer cosmetic services) offering teeth whitening. These operators are often unqualified, however. To offer a service such as teeth whitening in these circumstances is illegal without a dental professional in attendance.
DIY home treatments, usually bought online, are available too. Again, there are risks attached to these, often relating to dangerous levels of hydrogen peroxide, which can damage the teeth and gums.
Teeth whitening should only be done by a dentist or qualified and regulated dental professional.
How does the whitening process work?
Teeth whitening is typically achieved through procedures that involve the application of bleaching agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which is licensed for use only by dentists.
These chemicals, carefully prepared and used with a custom-made whitening tray, penetrate the enamel to break down stains caused by foods, drinks, smoking and ageing. The tray will be left in place for a specific period. This is to ensure every tooth is cleaned and whitened.
Professional whitening treatments performed by dentists use higher concentrations of bleaching agents for quicker and more noticeable results. Over-the-counter products like whitening strips or gels provide a less intensive alternative.
Teeth whitening is not permanent. The effects can last for a few months up to around three years. This will be significantly less if you smoke or consume food and drink that cause staining.
To maintain the whitening effect and promote good oral hygiene
There are several ways to ensure you lengthen the impact of whitening:
- Limit consumption of coffee, tea, and red wine, and use a straw when possible to reduce contact with teeth.
- Adopt a regular brushing routine using a whitening toothpaste, and ensure you brush at least twice a day.
- Floss daily to remove plaque and food particles that brushing alone cannot reach.
- Avoid smoking or using tobacco products, which are major contributors to discoloration.
- Schedule regular dental cleanings to remove tartar and maintain overall oral health.
- Consider touch-up whitening treatments as recommended by your dentist to preserve brightness over time.
A consistent oral hygiene routine not only helps sustain the whitening effects but also ensures the health of your teeth and gums in the long term. Whether you want to present the best image of yourself for a job interview or special occasion or you simply want to look your best, find out how your dentist can help you achieve a perfect smile today.
