Different teeth whitening options

Teeth whitening is a dental cosmetic procedure performed on teeth to remove the stains and discoloration from their surface. Fluorosis, aging, improper brushing and eating habits, and smoking are some of the most common reasons why teeth turn yellowish and dark. Teeth whitening is a simple, quick, and painless procedure that can help you get a gorgeous smile within a short period of time.

Who can opt for teeth whitening?

Teeth whitening is suitable for patients who have discolored teeth due to the above-mentioned reasons. It is also beneficial for people who wish to brighten their smile before any occasion, such as a wedding or a party.

What are the various types of teeth whitening?

• In-Office Teeth Whitening

Dentist-supervised teeth whitening treatments are generally the most effective and safest option. In-office teeth whitening procedures use a stronger bleaching agent than at-home kits and can provide dramatic results in a single treatment. The dentist thoroughly examines your teeth and gums to check for any signs of decay or damage and to determine your candidacy for the procedure. We use an in-office whitening gel that contains hydrogen peroxide as the active ingredient. It breaks down easily when applied to the teeth and releases oxygen molecules, which get absorbed by the porous structure of the enamel, thereby making it whiter.

• Take-Home Teeth Whitening Kits

We usually suggest this procedure for patients who can’t spare their time at our office for the procedure or those with sensitive gums or receding gums that aren’t suitable for in-office whitening. The dentist will give you a whitening gel that should be used with personalized trays. You can use them at home once every few days to get whiter teeth. However, with at-home whitening, results are not immediate. It can take several weeks to see results.

• Laser Teeth Whitening

Laser teeth whitening is performed using a photosensitive whitening gel that gets activated by a laser of the right intensity and color. Dentists prefer this method to treat patients who have cavities or severe gum diseases as well as those who have receding gums, as it doesn’t affect them much. The gel breaks down into oxygen molecules, which are released and reach the porous structure of the enamel and strengthen it against future staining or discoloration.

• Over-the-counter teeth whitening

Over-the-counter teeth whitening products available at pharmacies and supermarkets may provide more noticeable whitening effects than toothpaste, depending on the product used. 

• Teeth whitening toothpaste

Whitening toothpaste work by removing surface stains from teeth. However, they will not whiten teeth beyond their natural shade. Whitening toothpaste contains hydrogen peroxide, which breaks down into free radicals and breaks down stains. However, this whitening agent will stain your teeth. In fact, the abrasive nature of these products can actually wear away the protective enamel of your teeth.

Call us at (303) 680-6000 or schedule an appointment online to know more about different teeth whitening options.