These days, teeth whitening is clearly the leading cosmetic procedure within the dental industry. People are well aware that first impressions, be it a first date or a job interview, count and one of the things a person first notices upon meeting someone is their smile. A white clean smile can breed confidence and self image, and when you consider the fact it’s a quick and easy procedure to carry out it is easy to see why it has become so popular across all generations.
The tooth whitening process is essentially bleaching which can be administered at home or at the dentist. At home, the treatment will be low cost and involve the use of strips and tooth whitening toothpaste. Home whitening kits will generally use hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide which are agents used to lighten the shade of a person’s teeth. At the dentist, it is more likely to cost into the hundreds with the use of lasers now becoming common place.
So, why do teeth need whitening? Everyone wants to have those pearly whites of childhood but the fact is that an adult’s teeth will naturally darken with age for a variety of reasons. Caffeinated drinks have an effect on the enamel of teeth and so do colour. These factors if consumed regularly throughout a person’s life can turn teeth anywhere from a dark yellow to a muddy brown. In fact, they may even cause damage to the teeth that teeth whitening just won’t fix. However, in most cases it can be a great way to perfect that beautiful smile.
Do note though that there are some risks involved, particularly if you opt for home treatment. If over used, gel bleaching can cause chemical burns within the mouth. Over bleaching is also common which results in a smile that is not only white but blinding. Excessive use can also see the process become ineffective as your teeth’s enamel gets used to the chemicals used. It should also be noted it is purely an aesthetic process and the results are not permanent.
All in all though, this procedure is highly recommended and when paired with good dental hygiene can have long lasting effects for a person. Having it done at your dentist or even some health spas offer such packages, can give you a more permanent white smile then at home remedies. Of course, with a regular routine of brushing and flossing paired with a whitening tooth paste a person can achieve that brilliant smile without a trip to the dentist. Just remember that in all of the above cases; it does take more than just an annual trip to the dental aisle or office to keep that pearlescent smile of yours. Good hygiene and more water than caffeine are prime factors in aiding the whitening processes.
The Smile Spa is a North East based dental practice whom specialise in cosmetic dentistry in Middlesbrough, Stockton and Teesside. As well as tooth whitening, they also offer other dental procedures such as dental implants, facial aesthetics and smile makeovers.
Tags: cosmetic dentistry, dental, dentist, health, tooth whitening