If you’ve made the important decision to improve your smile through teeth whitening, here are five things to know about brightening your smile:
1. Different stains need different treatments
There are typically two different types of tooth stains that you may target when whitening teeth. Extrinsic stains, or surface stains, appear yellow and may be easier to whiten. Intrinsic stains are stains inside your teeth, which give teeth a grey or blue tone. The type of whitening treatment you choose should be based on the type of stain you have. Some light surface stains can be removed with whitening toothpastes, or over-the-counter teeth whitening kits. For deeper extrinsic and intrinsic stains, professional-grade products may be needed.
2. Sensitivity issues
If your teeth have sensitivity issues, you may want to see a dentist before proceeding with a whitening treatment, as increased tooth sensitivity can be a side effect. Depending on the concentration of the treatment, teeth can feel more sensitive for a few hours or longer following a treatment. Desensitizing toothpaste can help, as can avoiding hot or ice-cold foods and drinks. The best thing to do, though, is speak with your dentist about how to deal with any potential sensitivity issues before getting treatment.
3.Natural tooth shades vary
We all have different tooth colours, depending on our age, the thickness of the enamel and the shade of dentin under the enamel. When choosing a whitening treatment, it is important to recognize that your teeth are not the exact same shade as a friend who recently had treatment and that your results may be different.
4. The type of whitener you use makes a difference
While it may seem like a tooth whitener is a tooth whitener, not all whiteners are equal. Different strengths and different whitening agents will work on your teeth differently. Over-the-counter treatments, for example, will not be as effective as a treatment provided by your dentist. Look at the types of stains you have to see what whitener would work best for you.
5. It’s not permanent
Just like many other types of cosmetic treatments, occasional touch-ups are required to keep your smile bright. Dentists recommend you limit or avoid staining foods and drinks, such as wine, juices, coffee, and tea. Smoking and chewing tobacco should also be avoided.
If you want to know more about brightening your smile through tooth whitening, please contact Halo Dental to learn more and to find out if you are a good candidate.
