There are various methods to whiten your teeth. Tooth whitening products, or the do-it-yourself approach, are often advertised in commercials and magazine ads. These products are marketed as ways to save you time and money, but how safe are they? With any tooth whitening product, tooth sensitivity is always an issue. Deciding on what you can tolerate is important due to the chemicals used in these kits.
Something else to consider is what dental work you’ve had done in the past. Any tooth whitening product, whether done at your dentist’s office or at home, will NOT work if you’ve had cavities filled. The filling used for cavities can’t be bleached. If you’ve had cavities that were filled in any of your front teeth, consult with your dentist before using any whitening products.
Treatments Provided by a Dentist
Professional tooth whitening in Miami, FL is often preferred over the do-it-yourself products. The chemicals that are applied are stronger, but the tooth enamel is protected by a buffer included in the gel. This type of product is very effective and can whiten teeth in a single visit. Many dentists state that your teeth can brighten up to 10 shades in an hour.
This type of whitening is only used on the front eight teeth, which makes it great for seeing immediate results. Professional tooth whitening often lasts for years, depending on how well you maintain your teeth. Following up with an at-home whitening product often increases the longevity of your bright white smile.
Do-It-Yourself
At-home tooth whitening products have become increasingly popular. They are inexpensive and easy to use, and can be purchased over-the-counter without a dentist’s prescription or supervision. These types of products include paint-on gel, whitening strips, mouth trays with gel, and whitening toothpaste and mouthwash. They are marketed as safe to use; however, it is always wise to seek your dentist’s advice before using. Even though they are widely available, it’s still recommended to use tooth whitening products supervised by a dentist because improperly-fitting mouth trays can lead to gum infections. A dentist can also provide the proper solution for sensitive teeth.
