The beauty of a dazzling smile is something many people crave, however factors such as certain foods, drinks, and tobacco use keep teeth from looking brilliant. Teeth whitening is the cosmetic dentistry solution to this common appearance issue. If you’re considering teeth whitening but would like to know more about how the process works, read on. Numerous teeth whitening options are available, including at-home kits and in-office procedures.

Determine which teeth whitening option is best for your cosmetic dentistry needs.

Light-Activated Whitening

Light-activated whitening is a bleaching procedure that alters the color of your teeth. It is sometimes referred to as chairside bleaching, and provides instant results. Your dentist uses tooth bleach activated with a laser or light to whiten teeth. The gums are protected with a shield or gel before the bleaching agent is applied. Teeth are dramatically whiter following this $500 or more procedure. The results last about a year, as teeth are still susceptible to food, beverage, and tobacco staining. Your dentist will probably give you a custom mouthpiece and gel kit to help you maintain a white smile.

At-Home Whitening Kits

Over-the-counter whitening kits frequently contain mouth “trays” featuring bleaching ingredients. The main bleaching ingredient in most kits is hydrogen peroxide. Bleaching ingredients penetrate tooth enamel to create an oxidation reaction that breaks up tooth stains. Trays are placed over the top and bottom front teeth for about 30 minutes every day to create a whiter smile over a week-long period or more. Bleaching agents are not as strong as those used in your dentist’s office. Other types of at-home whitening kits include boil and bite trays, whitening strips, and whitening gels.

Abrasion Technique

Non-bleaching abrasion techniques are also used to whiten teeth. Whitening toothpastes are the most common example of abrasion techniques, and combine abrasive ingredients with polishing or chemical agents to remove stains. Whitening toothpastes are widely considered much less effective than dental office and at-home whitening procedures, and their results vary depending on the product and the degree of staining.

Discuss teeth whitening options with Temiko G. Braswell, DDS, PC. The Perry, GA-based cosmetic dentist provides teeth whitening, among other cosmetic and general dentistry procedures, to keep patients’ smiles healthy and beautiful. Schedule teeth whitening today by calling (478) 988-3200 or visiting the website. “Like” the cosmetic dentist on Facebook for more great tips.