In the previous blog post, Dr. Clauson introduced the topic of teeth whitening and discussed the many factors as to why your teeth may become discolored.
Once patients are aware of why their teeth are discoloring, it is time to look into which teeth whitening method is right for you:
In-Home System: In-home whitening systems will differ from dental office to dental office. These systems generally use a whitening gel along with custom made trays to place the whitening gel. With this system, it will vary on how long the trays are worn. Results should be seen within a couple of weeks.
In-office system: This type of system is the fastest way to whiten your teeth. This system requires a visit to the dentist’s office. A specialized gel will be placed on your teeth for a half-hour or an hour. A specialized light will be used to optimize results.
Whitening toothpaste: These products only produce a small improvement to the shade of your teeth. Whitening toothpaste does not contain a bleaching product and can only remove stains on the surface of your teeth, not the stains within. It changes the tooth shade to one shade lighter.
Over the counter systems: These products are located on the shelves of your nearest supermarket or convenience store. These products, unlike toothpaste, contain a bleaching agent which can help make your teeth a whiter shade. This bleaching agent, however, is not as strong as the products used in the in-office teeth whitening system.
Veneers, crowns, and other restorations: As mentioned in the previous blog article, bleaching agents found in many whitening systems are not effective for certain discoloration causes. Causes such as trauma and medication require a veneer to whiten the teeth. A veneer is a thin ceramic covering that fits your tooth. The shade of your veneer is customizable.
Before picking a teeth whitening method, consult with your dentists to understand the cause of your teeth discoloration. It is important to find a safe and effective system that can deliver the best results.
If you’re in the Lodi, California area and require a dentist, Dr. Clauson at TLC Dental welcomes you! Contact us today!