Keeping Your Smile Bright!
Today’s society is enamoured with bright, white smiles, something that is reflected in TV ads, fashion magazines, and even dating websites. Having beautiful, white teeth is not just an attractive feature, it’s a sign of good health and hygiene. Businesses have picked up on people’s desire for a dazzling smile and since then have developed hundreds of teeth-whitening products, from special toothpaste you can use at home to professional grade laser whiteners.
Deciding which is the best method of whitening your teeth can be a difficult and confusion process. That’s why we have summarized the main models of teeth whitening and their main pros and cons. It should get you on track to a bright smile in no time!
1. Whitening Toothpaste
Whitening toothpaste is just toothpaste containing higher levels of hydrogen peroxide than traditional toothpastes.
PROS: Whitening toothpaste is readily available over the counter in virtually every drug, grocery, or department store. It is not significantly more expensive than regular toothpaste and is easy to use. Another positive point is that you use toothpaste anyway, so there is virtually no extra cost for your teeth whitening effort.
CONS: People and commercials may say what they like about the effectiveness of whitening toothpaste, but in many people’s experience it take more than a few tubes of the product to see an effect at all. Whitening toothpaste is not recommended for people who want to see big results in a short amount of time.
2. Whitening Strips
Whitening strips entered the market around 10 years ago and have been a popular option for those looking to brighten their smile. These over the counter strips contain hydrogen peroxide and are stuck directly onto the enamel of your teeth.
PROS: They are quite cost effective (approx, $50 for a full treatment length) and easy to use. There are visible results with regular use and are a great option for those who have a few weeks’ time to whiten their smile.
CONS: Whitening strips are difficult to apply to just your teeth, meaning that very often your gums and soft tissue are exposed to harsh chemicals which can result in sensitivity and pain.
3. Trays and Gels
This is the first chemical method that people used to whiten their teeth. It involves squeezing a hydrogen peroxide gel onto a small tray that is moulded to fit your upper and lower teeth.
PROS: There are visible results to this over-the-counter method, however they can take up to a few weeks for the full effect
CONS: A lot of tray and gel users develop tooth sensitivities due to the exposure of your teeth, gums, and other tissues to the chemicals meant to bleach your teeth.
4. Laser Whitening
Laser whitening is done at a professional clinic and involves having a hydrogen peroxide gel coating your teeth and then being exposed to super bright “laser” light.
PROS: The results are said to be pretty much instant. After even just one session, your teeth could be up to 11 shades brighter, depending on the technique and equipment.
CONS: Laser whitening can be extremely expensive and should only be applied by a licensed dentist. If the highly concentrated serum gets on the gums, it can bleach and irritate them. Some patients also experience temporary pain during and shortly after the procedure.
A summary like this might assist you in making a preliminary decision on how to whiten your teeth. However, be sure to consult with your dentist to learn which whitening treatment is best for you. He or she will be able to recommend a product or procedure based on your personal dental health and your priorities. So don’t wait long to start working on your movie-star smile! Book your appointment now and then start smiling wide!