Teeth whitening

• What is teeth whitening?
• Why do teeth darken?
• Considerations
• Methods
• At-home kits
• Professional whitening
• Products
• Whitening strips
• Whitening Gel
• Side effects
• Treatments
• Keep your teeth whitened

Teeth Whitening Considerations

If you’re about to undertake a program of teeth whitening treatment there are some considerations that you should first take into account. A very important consideration is that whilst teeth whitening products are totally safe, having been thoroughly and clinically tested; anyone who is pregnant or a nursing mother should not use them, nor should children.

The cost of the product you choose is bound to be important. However, buying an ‘at-home’ product just because it is the cheapest is not a wise thing to do. You must read the manufacturers information carefully to make sure that it will give you the results you want and that it is an appropriate product for your teeth. Some people have more sensitive teeth than others and may need to begin the process of teeth whitening with a product that is not as strong as some others. The time it takes for the teeth whitening kit to work might also be important to you. If there is a special occasion you want to have your teeth looking bright and white for; then you’ll need to make sure you start the treatment program in good time. If you choose to consider whether to purchase a course of teeth whitening treatment from a dentist, both the cost and time factors need to be considered. Choosing the cheapest dentist over a well known, established and reputable one could turn out to be a false economy. Also, dependant on how busy you are the treatment program will require several visits to your dentist.

Before starting to use teeth whitening products you should consider having a dental check-up. Any fillings or other dental work should be carried out before starting the treatment program and your dentist may even be able to advise you on the course of treatment most suitable for you. Perhaps more importantly he or she will be able to advise you against using certain types of teeth whitening products if you have any severe tooth decay and deterioration or gum disease. People falling into these categories usually have teeth or gums that are very sensitive to cold and hot drinks or food. If you’re not already aware, it might be helpful to consider the fact that teeth whitening products do not work on stains or discoloring on: fillings, crowns or veneers. Also, staining and discoloration due to the effects of certain penicillin based medicines; will not be affected by treatment with teeth whitening products.