A radiant smile is an indicator of self-assurance and excellent oral health. However, over time, a number of circumstances can cause the teeth to lose their natural radiance. Fortunately, teeth whitening is an efficient way to restore the brilliance of a smile, and cottage grove dental care does it best. We will cover all you need to know about tooth whitening in this extensive tutorial.
Table of Contents
What are the discolored teeth?
Understanding the causes of discoloration of teeth is crucial before delving into the specifics of teeth whitening. A combination of extrinsic (external) and intrinsic (internal) causes can cause teeth to become discolored.
Extrinsic Factors
- Dark-colored foods and drinks, including berries, coffee, tea, and red wine, can discolor the teeth.
- Smoking or chewing tobacco can leave lingering stains on the teeth.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Yellowing can result from plaque and tartar build-up caused by insufficient brushing and flossing.
- Growing older: As we age, our enamel thins, exposing the yellowish dentin layer underneath.
- Environmental Factors: Discoloration may result from exposure to fluoride or certain minerals.
Internal Factors:
- Trauma: A blow to the teeth may harm the pulp and cause staining.
- Drugs: A few antibiotics and antihypertensive medications have the potential to be intrinsically stained.
- Dental fluorosis: Too much fluoride during tooth growth can cause white or brown patches on teeth.
- Genetics: The thickness or translucency of enamel, which affects tooth color, is a natural trait.
Options for teeth whitening
The enamel and dentin stains are removed or lightened using teeth-whitening techniques. There are several ways to accomplish this goal.
Teeth whitening done in the office
- The procedure was performed in a controlled setting by a dentist or dental hygienist.
- Benefits: Provides quick, effective, and instantaneous effects.
- Method: A strong bleaching substance is applied to teeth and activated by a laser or special light.
Teeth Whitening at Home.
Options include dentist-made custom trays and over-the-counter whitening kits.
- Method: Custom trays or premade strips were coated with a whitening gel and placed on the teeth for a predetermined amount of time.
- Benefits: Less expensive than office treatments, practical, and efficient with regular use.
- Timeline: It usually takes a few days to a few weeks for the results to appear.
Homemade and natural remediation.
- Alternatives include mouthwashes with hydrogen peroxide, oil pulling, baking soda, and activated charcoal.
- Method: To gently remove surface stains, natural or commonplace treatments are utilized.
- Benefits: Although the outcomes may vary, they are inexpensive and generally safe.
