Basic Things You Should Know Before Teeth Whitening

Posted on: 3 July 2019

Although people say that laughter is the greatest medicine in life, you might not feel like smiling so much if you are uncomfortable with your teeth's appearance. Luckily, different teeth whitening techniques have been put in place to help transform your smile. Teeth whitening can be done by a dentist or by using over-the-counter whitening products. Each method you choose will offer different results, but you will eventually attain your objective. Before you book an appointment with a dentist or buy whitening products in a drugstore, here are essential details you should know.

Whitening doesn't destroy the teeth or enamel

Most people have a misconception that teeth whitening products do damage the teeth or enamel over time, but this is not true. Of course, if you are ignorant or misuse the products, you will not get favourable results and your teeth stains may not be eliminated. However, this doesn't mean the process doesn't work. The key to keeping your teeth and enamel in excellent condition when whitening is to follow the directions. The products contain active ingredients that are designed to penetrate the enamel to lift those stains, so use the right quantity at the specified time.  After whitening, the teeth will rehydrate naturally.

Whitening products have varied strengths

Do you know that teeth whiteners aren't created equal? Different teeth whitening products have different strengths. Some should be left on the teeth for longer while others require less time. Also, the products dentists use for the procedure are very different from those you will find at the drug store. Usually, the active ingredients are highly concentrated, and since they are only used by your dentist, you will get the best results. The active ingredients in over-the-counter whitening strips have a lower concentration, meaning they will take longer to work. If you want to get quick and reliable results, consider seeing a dentist.

Not everyone can have pearly white teeth

Your teeth's natural colour, as well as the genetic make-up, are set at birth. This is the reason natural shades of teeth vary from one person to the other, so after the whitening procedure, the results will also differ. For this reason, it is important to know the contributing factors to such outcomes. These factors include your teeth colour, dentin shade, enamel thickness and age. The dentin is the part of the tooth that contains the stains, and it lies under your enamel. Its shade can range from tan, brown, grey and yellow, meaning your shade will determine the results you get.

If you're looking to achieve a brighter, whiter and more attractive smile, use these considerations when looking to book your next teeth whitening appointment.

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