TYPICAL TEETH WHITENING PRODUCTS
Have you looked in the mirror while brushing your teeth and realized that your teeth have become stained or yellow? If so, then you may want to consider different teeth whitening options to get back to that bright white smile.
What Is Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening is a term that refers to any procedure that improves the whiteness of a person’s teeth. While some teeth whitening options are only available through a dentist, other products can be purchased over-the- counter at your local grocery or drug store.
Why Would I Want to Whiten My Teeth?
Teeth whitening is generally a purely cosmetic procedure. Still, that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have benefits! Many patients that undergo teeth whitening experience:
- Improved Mood
- A Boost in Confidence
- A Brighter Smile
- Less Apprehension to Smile
- Increased Self-Esteem
Not smiling can actually negatively affect your self-esteem and confidence—leaving you feeling down. By removing your fear of smiling, you’ll likely notice that you become more positive and your overall mood improves.
What Products Are Available?
There are a variety of different products available to people that want to whiten their teeth. Some of these products offer a minor solution and are safe for most people to use. Other products can offer a more significant change, but require the approval of a dentist before use. Some products that are available include:
Whitening Toothpaste and Mouthwash
For people that have teeth that are beginning to stain or yellow, but aren’t yet at a point where a professional teeth whitening may be required, whitening toothpaste and mouthwash may be a good option. These are sold over-the- counter and are very easy to find just about everywhere where toothpaste is sold.
In-Office Tooth Whitening
For patients that need a moderate to significant whitening procedure, in-office or at-home whitening supervised by a dentist may be the best options. In-office whitening is a popular option because it allows patients to see their teeth whitened in as little as 45 minutes. The only real downside to in-office whitening is the cost, which is generally the most expensive whitening option.
At-Home Dental Whitening
Another option for teeth whitening provided by a dentist is at-home whitening. This involves a whitening solution being used by a patient at home, with the help of a custom tray. For some patients, the tray can be worn throughout the evening—allowing the whitening process to be completed in a short amount of time. Other patients will only be able to wear the tray a few hours at a time—providing the same results, but taking longer for the process to be completed.
Am I a Candidate for Teeth Whitening?
Teeth whitening can be an excellent choice for a lot of patients, but more intensive options may not be available to all patients. Visit your dentist so they can check to see if the enamel of your teeth are strong enough to support a professional teeth whitening procedure. Then, choose the right option for you.
Interesting in talking to someone about your teeth whitening options in Mobile, AL? Contact our office today!
Just interested in learning more about teeth whitening in general? No problem! Here's some information on getting whiter teeth at home.