November  23, 2015

*This is a guest article written for those who are interested in teeth whitening.*

Who doesn’t want to have sparkling white teeth? Dental bleaching, also known as tooth whitening, is a frequent request in the field of cosmetic dentistry. Whitening brings back the tooth’s natural colour while bleaching can whiten beyond the natural colour. There are various methods available now, such as bleaching pen, brushing, and bleaching strips. Teeth whitening has become a highly requested procedure in cosmetic dentistry this day.

One of the popular tools used is the whitening toothpaste. Almost all toothpaste help in removing surface stains due to the abrasives they contain. Another whitening toothpaste contains gentle chemical agents or polishing substances that provide extra stain removal power. Whitening toothpaste can indeed remove surface stains, and they do not contain bleach. Over-the-counter and professional whitening products contain carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide that helps lighten the colour deep in the tooth. Whitening toothpaste can lighten the tooth’s colour by about one shade. Some unusual ones on the market right now can go beyond one tone.

Besides toothpaste, we have the gels and strips as well. Whitening gels are peroxide-based gels. Apply them with a small brush directly to the teeth surfaces. Instructions need to be followed carefully depending on the peroxide’s strength. Initial results can be seen in a couple of days. The final results can usually sustain for months. Because of results as these, patients are getting their money’s worth. Whitening strips are gaunt, virtually invisible strips that are coated with a peroxide-based whitening gel. The strips are applied twice daily for 30 minutes for 14 days. Initial results are seen in a few days, and final results are sustained for about four months.

Among the newer products available are whitening rinses. Just like mouthwashes, they make the breath fresh while reducing dental plaque and gum disease at the same time. These products also contain hydrogen peroxide in some, which is a substance used to whiten teeth. Manufacturers claim it may take up to 12 weeks for noticeable results. You just swish them around in your mouth for a minute, two times a day before brushing your teeth. Some experts say that rinses are not as effective as other over-the-counter (OTC) products

Commercial whitening products for home use include rinses, gels, chewing gums, toothpaste, etc. The ADA has recently published a list of accepted over-the-counter whitening products to help citizens choose appropriate whitening products. For customised in-home whitening, the dentist will take impressions of your lower and upper teeth to make the custom mouthpieces. The mouthpiece needs to fit well to achieve a good outcome. A close fit helps the whitening agent remain in contact with your teeth and not flow out.

In conclusion, you might want to consider the home whitening therapy after consultation with your dentist. Do seek a second opinion if you wish to do so as well. Asking advice from experts is vital to prevent your teeth from dentine hypersensitivity.

Do speak with our friendly Neo Smiles team about getting your teeth whitened today!