Want whiter teeth? Who doesn’t!?! Tooth whitening and bleaching treatments are growing in popularity. There are many options for those seeking to lighten stained teeth or just looking to obtain a more radiant smile:
Peroxide Containing Dentist Treatments
Over-The-Counter (OTC) Whitening Kits
Whitening Toothpastes
Whitening/Bleaching options at the dentist can range from treatments exclusively at the office, prepared at-home treatment kits, or a combination of the two. Teeth whitening consists of efforts made to restore the tooth’s surface color whereas bleaching aims to whiten the teeth beyond their natural color. Peroxide-based bleaching treatments tend to be the method of choice for dentists.
A good candidate for bleaching has darkened teeth from age, coffee, tea, or smoking with shades of yellow, brown, or orange. Gray stains caused by fluorosis or smoking respond to bleaching, however not producing as dramatic results. Since tooth sensitivity may be heightened during the bleaching process, those suffering from such should discuss this with their dentist to explore options that are best suited and most comfortable for the patient.
Quick bleaching efforts can be completed in a thirty-minute to an hour long session with the dentist, and typically involve a light or heat source to speed the process. Most patients, however, opt for a more economical choice of an at-home treatment. This process involves having impressions taken to manufacture a nightguard for the patient. The dentist will supply the patient with bleaching materials and instructions on how to apply them to the teeth. Treatments can range from an hour to two hour daily session for three to six weeks, or nightly applications typically lasting ten to fourteen days.
Typical results lighten the teeth two or more shades and last one to five years. However, results will vary by patient and type of discoloration.
OTC whitening kits range in price and can be purchased at drug stores and various other locations. Most kits come in the form of strips or a type of gel added to a tray worn on the teeth. These treatments vary in effectiveness based upon the type of stains. Some whitening treatments can cause discomfort in those with tooth sensitivity and more acidic whiteners may wear away tooth enamel.
When choosing an OTC whitener, make sure to select one with an American Dental Association (ADA) Seal of Acceptance. It is in your best interest to consult your dentist before beginning any whitening treatment. Your dentist can provide a recommendation of the appropriate course of treatment based on your particular discoloration and the results you hope to obtain.
Contact Salt Lake City Dentist to schedule a tooth bleaching consultation and discuss your options today!