Teeth Whitening Tips You Should Try Out
Teeth whitening is one of the cosmetic dentistry procedures used to get rid of stubborn and permanent stains. There are probably numerous methods you have heard about teeth whitening—some of them are myths while others are medical facts. Read on to learn the differences.
Eligibility for Whitening
Some factors will determine if you need teeth whitening or not. Before you take any chance, you are advised to visit your dentist for recommendations. Some discoloration cannot be removed by whitening, while other factors can also limit your possibilities with the procedure.
The following reasons are why your dentist might recommend you alternative options to achieve your smile:
- If your teeth are yellow, you shouldn’t expect whitening to change them much. White and gray spots or discoloration due to a dead tooth will also not be cleared by whitening products.
- You are also advised not to perform whitening procedures on colored crowns or fillings.
- If you have a history of periodontal or gum diseases, you are advised not to use any chemically induced products when whitening.
Teeth Whitening Options
During your appointment with one of our dentists in Emeryville, we will give you a few whitening procedures options to choose from, depending on the extent of your teeth discoloration.
In-Office Whitening Procedures
They are quick and effective. Several visits to the doctor have to be made for optimal results. The whitening products are applied directly to the teeth. The in-office procedure that shows result within a single appointment a bit more expensive compared to others that take longer.
Home Based Whitening Procedures
Before deciding to whiten your teeth using the over counter products, we at Franklin Dental Care advise you to visit a dentist near you for consultation. Despite the products’ affordability and ease to handle, some of them might not be suitable for you.
The following are some of the over-the-counter products our dentist in Oakland, CA, might recommend for you depending on your eligibility or severity of the discoloration.
Strips
According to our teeth whitening services in Oakland, CA, this is one of the most common ways to whiten your teeth. The strips are thin, flexible plastics coated with low amounts of bleach.
You place them on your teeth, where they imitate their shape. They are worn for 30 minutes, most times twice a day for about two weeks. Strips can be worn even when you are engaged with other activities. They are discarded after use. Consult professional teeth whitening experts near you if you experience any side effects such as sensitivity or irritation.
Trays
They contain a higher concentration of bleach. Molds are made to make fitted flexible trays for your teeth. The trays will prevent your saliva from diluting the bleach and leaking of some to your gums hence reducing irritation. The bleach is stored into syringes then loaded into the trays before use. Tray kits provide bleach treatment enough for one week a year.
What to Avoid
After you have invested your time and money in making your teeth sparkle, you most likely want to savor the freshness and brightness of the smile for a long time. Your teeth are likely to stain after the procedures, but with proper eating habits, you will be able to keep them white.
The following are some foods and beverages you should ration or avoid taking.
Acids
It would be best if you avoided anything that has acidic components such as foods or beverages that are citrusy, including soft drinks or pickles. The bleach in products used for whitening makes teeth sensitive, and when in contact with the acids, they may experience irritation.
Tobacco
Tobacco is one of the leading causes of discolored teeth. It’s best to quit smoking after whitening to maintain your smile bright.
Dark Substances
Any food that can stain a white shirt can also stain your teeth, and this includes drinks such as tea, colored wines, or coffee. If you have to take them, use a straw to limit their contact with your teeth.
Minimize the intake of cherries, dark chocolates, and other dark-colored foodstuffs. You can also brush your teeth to remove any colored substances that have stuck on your teeth.