Who does not want a bright smile? Questions, expert dentist Dr. Kami Hoss. But with so many teeth whitening products available in the market it can be difficult to choose which one is better and whether or not it is safe to use certain chemicals or whitening agents at home. There are, however, different types of dental-certified teeth whitening procedures that patients can perform in the comfort of their own homes. Nonetheless, these must be performed with the suggestion of a competent dentist.
Teeth Whitening Strips
A simple way to attain a brighter smile at home is through teeth whitening strips. These thin, flexible strips are dripped in a bleaching solution, and the peroxide is released when a patient opens his mouth. The strips are applied to teeth for a fixed time limit, and when removed, a person should notice a change in color in just a few uses.
Dr. Kami Hoss suggests not to use this product if a patient is suffering from gum disease or sensitivity that bleeds when flossing or brushing.
Teeth Whitening Pens
As the name suggests, it looks like a pen and has a fine tip that releases the whitening gel directly onto the teeth. The bleaching solution is usually made with hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. It is targeted to stay on the surface of the patient’s teeth for a longer time until it is rinsed away. Teeth may look whiter after several uses, but this type of whitening will not last as long as a professional treatment from a dentist’s clinic.
Teeth Whitening Gels
This is applied with a plastic tray. Tooth whitening gels can be purchased over the counter and come in a gel formula. Patients can also use these products with a special tray from their dentist. The use of teeth whitening gels is not recommended for patients having gum disease, tooth decay, exposed roots, or braces.
Teeth Whitening Kits
Complete teeth whitening kits are available at most pharmacies or drugstores. These usually include a bleaching agent, a flexible mouth tray, and sometimes even an LED light which helps the bleaching agent to work more effectively. The time it takes to work and show results depends on the type of kit a person is using, but most people begin to notice a change in color after a few uses.
Like other at-home teeth whitening products, teeth whitening kits are not recommended for patients suffering from gum disease or other oral health issues, suggests Dr. Kami Hoss.
In-office Teeth Whitening
The most reliable form of teeth whitening is the professional treatment done in a dentist’s clinic. This procedure uses a more powerful bleaching agent than what is available over the counter. It can take anywhere from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on the patient’s requirements.
Most dentists suggest discontinuing any kind of teeth whitening treatment for pregnant patients. In addition, those who have crowns, veneers, fillings, or braces should also avoid any form of teeth whitening treatment.
Polishing
Polishing is a quick procedure that uses a mild abrasive to remove any surface stains on the teeth. It can be done in the clinic or at home with a handheld device. This too is not suggested for patients with gum disease, exposed roots, or plaque build-up as it could cause irritation. Moreover, it is ineffective in removing deep-set stains as compared to other teeth whitening treatments.
Although there are different at-home teeth whitening products, it is important to remember that these treatments may not be as effective as professional treatments and may not suit everyone. It is better to consult a dentist before starting any teeth whitening treatment to ensure it fulfills one’s needs.