Explanation of Teeth Whitening Options

Various teeth whitening options are available to the public. These help people achieve similar results. You can learn about these in order to determine which route is best for you.

Dental Office Whitening-Usually the advantage of this is a significant color change in a short amount of time. This procedure uses a high-concentration gel that contains peroxide (usually from 9 to 40% hydrogen peroxide). Usually a dentist applies this procedure right in his or her office.

The process: Usually this solution is painted on with the use of a brush or rubber dam. It is left on for 15 to 20 minute intervals for up to an hour. Anyone who struggles with particularly tough stains may come in for an additional bleaching. Either that or they might use an at-home system.

Prescribed take-home kits- This is usually administered by a dentist but is applied at home by a user. This is a process, which takes place over a longer period and requires the regular application of a less concentrated form of gel.

The process: The solution is applied using bleaching trays that conform to the shape of the jaw. This procedure is repeated according to the length of days specified.

Over-the-counter products-The concentration of home solutions sold this way are available without a prescription. They are usually less potent (contain approximately 15% to 22% carbamide peroxide which is less than half the strength of certain hydrogen peroxide solutions) than the professional products.

Aftercare

No matter what product you have used to brighten your teeth a certain amount of maintenance is needed afterwards. One of the major changes you need to make is to refrain from dark-colored foods and drink for at least a week, and then use them sparingly thereafter.

If you do drink, darker beverages later on make sure you use a straw. This will help you avoid direct contact with your teeth, as the liquid will then reach the back of your mouth.

Always make sure you brush and floss after every meal as well. Do the same before bedtime, too. If you have any question about oral hygiene products that you should use consult your dentist.

Also, remember not to use a veneer, bonding, or other treatment procedures until two weeks later. This will help ensure that your procedures will hold up. Otherwise, they may not take very well.

Similarly, you probably will need to replace any teeth-colored restorations after whitening. This will ensure prevention of what is commonly called the “Technicolor” effect.