 |
Welcome to
Teeth Whitening Information |
 |
 |
|
 |
Teeth
Whitening Systems: Do You Know What's Available?
This
website shows you what's available in Teeth Whitening Systems.
|
There are many types
of teeth whitening products available for use at home. They can be either
purchased over-the-counter or are dispensed and applied by your dentist. Teeth
whitening products are broken down into two main categories: bleaching
solutions and whitening products.
The term whitening, refers to
restoring a tooth's surface color by removing dirt and debris. So teeth
whitening products that clean, such as toothpaste, are considered a whitener.
Since the term whitening sounds much less intimidating than bleaching it is
more frequently used, even when describing products that contain bleach. All
toothpastes help remove surface stain through the action of mild abrasives.
"Whitening" toothpastes have special chemical or polishing agents that provide
additional stain removal effectiveness. Unlike bleaches, these teeth whitening
products do not alter the natural color of teeth.
Bleaching
Solutions: These teeth whitening products contain peroxide(s), which
actually bleach the tooth enamel. These products typically rely on carbamide
peroxide as the bleaching agent. Carbamide peroxide comes in several different
concentrations (10%, 16%, 22%). According to the FDA, the term bleaching can be
used only when the teeth can be whitened beyond their natural color. This
applies strictly to products that contain bleach.
Whitening
Products:Peroxide-containing teeth whitening products typically come in a
gel and are placed in a mouthguard. Procedures for use can vary. Some products
are used twice a day for for about 2 weeks, and others are intended for
overnight use for 1-2 weeks. If you obtain the bleaching solution from your
dentist, he or she can make a custom-fitted mouthguard for you that will fit
your teeth precisely. Currently, only dentist-dispensed home-use 10% carbamide
peroxide tray-applied gels carry the ADA Seal.
Dentist In-Office
Teeth Whitening:Significant color change in a short period of time is the
major benefit of in-office whitening. This procedure involves the carefully
controlled use of a relatively high-concentration peroxide gel, applied to the
teeth by the dentist or trained technician. Generally, the peroxide remains on
the teeth for several 15 to 20 minute periods that add up to an hour. Patients
with particularly stubborn staining may need to return for one or more
additional bleaching sessions, or may be asked to continue with a home-use
teeth whitening products.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening: The
cheapest and most convenient of teeth whitening options is by using
over-the-counter teeth whitening products. It consists of bleaching using a
store-bought teeth whitening kit with a bleaching gel having a concentration
lower than that of the professionally dispensed take-home whiteners. The gel is
applied to the teeth via one-size-fits-all trays, whitening strips or paint-on
applicators. In many cases this may only whiten a few of the front teeth unlike
custom trays that can whiten the entire smile.
|
|
|
|
|
