Today, teeth whitening is a popular type of cosmetic treatment. Both women and men want attractive white smiles. This is important because a smile is one of the first things that most people notice.
A tooth is protected by enamel, a porcelain-like surface coating. Enamel protects against acid attacks from the consumption of certain foods and drinks as well as the effects resulting from the process of chewing. However, teeth become discolored over time and take on a dull appearance. This happens because enamel becomes transparent as it wears down. Dentin, which is the yellowish core material of a tooth, begins to show through the thinning enamel. In addition, the act of chewing creates small gaps in the enamel where debris and stains can accumulate.
Stains result from a variety of sources, such as eating acidic foods, smoking cigarettes, the aging process, consuming dark-colored foods or beverages, and injuring or grinding a tooth. These stains can form on the tooth’s interior or on its surface. Drinking or eating dark-colored beverages and foods leads to increased staining over time. The nicotine in cigarettes and acids in foods, such as citrus fruits, increases the erosion of enamel. Injuring a tooth or grinding it can result in larger cracks in the enamel, which allows more debris and stains to accumulate.
A technique called bleaching or whitening that can help reduce the amount of discoloration has been developed by dentists. Currently, there are three whitening treatments.
People can go to their dentist’s office for a professional bleaching treatment. In addition, dentists can also give patients whitening kits they can take home and use themselves. Professional bleaching shows the fastest results in the shortest amount of time. In contrast, results from the take-home kits take a longer time to become apparent. Finally, consumers can purchase over-the-counter bleaching kits in many retail stores. These types of kits are the least expensive, most convenient option available.
These treatments are safe as long as people follow directions when using them. However, bleaching treatments also have negative effects, including the “technicolor effect, ” increased sensitivity, and gum irritation. Dental restorations, such as porcelain veneers and crowns, retain their color during the bleaching process, which results in the “technicolor effect” of uneven brightening. Gums can be irritated by the peroxide in many of these treatments. A tooth temporarily becomes more sensitive to sensations, such as temperature and touch, during bleaching.
A person’s decision to undergo this form of cosmetic treatment is extremely personal. There are many things people should think about before using any whitening or bleaching treatment.
There are several things to consider when choosing a bleaching treatment. This is not a permanent fix. It must be maintained to keep teeth bright. People may have to replace dental restorations, such as crowns, to prevent the technicolor effect. Yellowish roots that have been revealed by receding gums are difficult to bleach. Finally, results may not be immediately apparent. In some cases, it can take at least two weeks to notice any difference.
Many people undergo teeth whitening treatments to make their smiles brighter and more attractive. People considering one of these treatments have a variety of options to choose from. They can buy an over-the-counter bleaching kit at a local retail outlet or go to their dentist’s office for a professional bleaching.
Serving the region of Braces Woodbridge, our team of Dentist Vaughan professionals can help you meet your dental cosmetic and health needs.