You might think that only celebrities get tooth whitening. However, tooth whitening is more common than you might think.
There are many advantages to tooth whitening. This post looks at some of the facts that you should know if you are considering tooth whitening.
Teeth Absorb Just Like Sponges
Teeth have pores just like a sponge or your skin. That means that the pores will absorb the color of whatever you put into your mouth. Smoking, dark berries, coffee, and wine are all very good at staining teeth. Therefore, you might notice that the natural color of your teeth ends up becoming darker.
Unless you actively remove these stains, they will never go away. This is where tooth whitening comes into play. It uses tooth whitening gel, which absorbs into the teeth and gently pushes the stains out from the pores.
Tooth Whitening Does Not Damage Teeth
When you consider professional tooth whitening, know that it is rather safe. However, just like aggressive brushing, abuse causes damage. Active ingredients are used by the whitening process to open the pores in the teeth temporarily to remove stains. Your teeth will be naturally rehydrated and re-mineralized after each whitening session.
The Delivery Device is Crucial
Similar active ingredients are used in most tooth whitening products on the market. The only difference is the device used to hold the whitening agent. Custom-fitted whitening trays help ensure that just about every angle of each tooth gets consistent and even coverage. Fitted whitening trays eliminate any possibility of inconsistency, unlike UV lights, whitening strips, and boil-and-bite trays. They allow you to achieve that beautiful smile that you have always wanted.
In the US, Custom-Fitted Whitening Trays Cost Over $500 from a Dentist
On average, dentists in the United States charge over $500 for custom-fitted trays. It is justified because you’re paying for their valuable chair time and expertise. Despite the cost, you might want to consider taking time to visit the dentist to help you out.
If you are feeling brave, you can try Whitening Sensitive Teeth at Home with Smile Brilliant.
Sensitivity Is Normal after Tooth Whitening
According to research, it is predicted that over 60% of Americans have naturally sensitive teeth. This sensitivity is caused by damaged teeth, thin enamel, and genetics. “When undergoing the whitening process, it is perfectly normal for your teeth to feel sensitive”, Dr. Bagheri from New York Total Dental states. During the whitening process, the teeth become dehydrated temporarily, which decreases their ability to keep the nerve insulated from changes in temperature. However, 12 to 36 hours after whitening, the sensitivity will disappear. A post-whitening fluoride treatment is recommended by hygienists and dentists to promote rehydration and nourish your teeth.
UV Light and Laser Tooth Whitening Are Temporary
UV (ultra-violet) light allows the whitening gel to speed up the process. The process has been regulated by the FDA and is offered under dentist supervision alone. Even though it helps whiten the teeth quickly, it is not advised for anyone who has sensitive teeth. The results will need to be maintained and are not temporary. The process itself is time-consuming and extremely expensive.
Stains on Teeth Do Not Get Removed Overnight
Remember, there is no product available on the market that can whiten your teeth within minutes or even a day. It is impossible for the whitening agent to chemically penetrate safely deep into the teeth at such a speed. If it were true, then dentists would not be paid so well because there would be no need for custom-fitted whitening trays.
The truth is that the whitening process can take as little as four days and as long as several months. If you have severe stains, then it is important to be patient because the whitening process could remove all those stains you might have had for years. Once the stains are no more, it will be easy for you to maintain your teeth.
Veneers and Caps Cannot Be Whitened
Finally, it is important to know that when artificial veneers and caps have been installed, they have been created to mimic the color of the surrounding teeth. The material will be created in either a lighter or darker color, and it can simply never be changed. They will never stain nor whiten. Therefore, there is no need to worry about caps and veneers because tooth whitening will not damage the dental work.
