“Teeth whitening” is effective for almost everyone. Other than temporary sensitivities, which occur more commonly in people with gum recession or significant cracks in their teeth, no major side effects are known to date. While most patients will see improvement in the whiteness of their teeth, it does require upkeep, usually needing touch-ups, or continued treatment to keep teeth white. Tooth discoloration, or staining, happens in everyone for a multitude of reasons. There are extrinsic stains, which are stains that appear on the exterior of teeth, caused by what we eat (food and beverage including red wine, coffee, tea, carrots), tobacco, and routine wear and tear. These stains are normally tackled by dental cleanings with ultrasonic scaler, and are the stains that “teeth whitening” treats. Intrinsic stains are stains that occur to the interior of teeth, which usually involve trauma, exposure to particular minerals (i.e. tetracycline) or excessive exposure to fluoride. Intrinsic stains also develop naturally from aging; tooth transparency caused by aging is reportedly the only stain that teeth whitening procedures cannot treat. In-Office Whitening: This is quickest way to whiten teeth, usually involving one hour in a dental office. The high concentration gel is applied carefully by a technician, assistant or dentist, and the gums are protected with a rubber dam. Professional Take Home Kits: While some believe this to be the most effective procedure, it takes considerably longer and requires patience and dedication to the program. Lower-concentration gel is involved, and the patient is required to apply gel into a tray and keep on for one hour daily, or even overnight, depending on the kit. Over-the-Counter: By far, the cheapest of all, especially since you do not need a dental office visit to acquire this product. This involves a gel that is lowest in concentration, and can be applied via tray, strips, or a gel that is painted onto teeth. While financial benefits exists, it is believed to be the least effective of all, and many patients lose interest in the procedure after awhile due to not seeing visible results.
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