The discoloration is one of the most common problems that people face with their teeth. It is natural for teeth to discolor, but it can also be caused by several things.
Certain diseases may be responsible for tooth enamel erosion and discoloration. These include gum disease, dental cavities, gingivitis, or periodontitis. Certain medications, like antibiotics, can also cause tooth enamel erosion and make teeth more sensitive to staining because they weaken tooth enamel.
Another possible cause of teeth discoloration is poor oral hygiene habits that lead to bacteria building upon the surface of the teeth. Other factors include genes, drinking coffee, wine, tea, or smoking cigarette, consuming certain foods like berries, nuts, tomatoes, and taking certain medications over time.
Stains on your teeth can cause low confidence. Fortunately, with teeth whitening treatment, you can get rid of these stains and brighten up your smile.
What is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a process of lightening the color of one’s teeth, which can range from subtle to drastic. The teeth whitening result differs depending on the type of whitening product you choose.
What Are the Types of Teeth Whitening?
There are two main types of teeth whitening: in-office and over-the-counter.
- In-office teeth whitening
In-office teeth whitening is a procedure that involves the application of a thin coat of gel to the surface of your teeth. The gel reacts with the hydrogen peroxide that has been mixed with it. This reaction removes stains from your teeth and gives them a whiter color.
In-office teeth whitening is typically carried out by a dentist or dental hygienist using laser light to activate the peroxide gel applied to the teeth and lasts for about 45 minutes.
- Over-the-counter whitening
Commercial whitening solutions can be used at home. However, these do not always work as well as in-office treatments, and many people find it difficult to maintain good oral hygiene at home.
These products come with varying degrees of intensity, so you can choose how white you want your teeth to be.
Professional Teeth Whitening vs. At-Home Whitening Kits; How They Differ
Both at-home kits and professional whitening kits have their particular pros and cons, so it is vital to know what you want before buying any one type of product or service.
When considering using an at-home kit, you can expect slower results with more sensitivity to tooth enamel wear. Professional tooth whitening systems will typically produce more dramatic results within a shorter amount of time with less sensitivity to tooth enamel wear due to the formula used in the process.
Professional whitening is the fastest, safest, and most effective way to get the smile you have always wanted. It comes with a variety of options that will fit into any budget.
Teeth whitening at home is less expensive than professional teeth whitening but takes longer to see results and is not effective. You will likely need to buy several different kits before you find one that works for your needs.
Which Treatment is Best for Teeth Whitening
Professional teeth whitening can be expensive, but it is more effective in getting your desired results. At-home kits do not produce the same results. And, at times, it can leave more stains and harm your teeth and gums.
At-home kits can take up to three weeks before you get desired results whereas, with professional treatments, it is possible to get desired results within one day or so.
It is important to consult a dentist near you before getting any teeth whitening treatment.
What are the Dangers of Teeth Whitening?
It is important to note that there are both advantages and disadvantages to getting teeth whitening near you. Teeth whitening advantages include the aesthetic benefits of getting whiter teeth, while the disadvantages include sore gums.
The dangers of teeth whitening include tooth sensitivity after treatment, tooth sensitivity before treatment, and tooth breakage. Tooth sensitivity does not last for long, but our dentist in Pinellas Park will recommend tooth-sensitive toothpaste to ease discomfort.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit Confident Smile Dentistry for more information about teeth whitening and which option is ideal for you.
