Is Teeth Whitening Right for You?

Your smile creates an immediate impression on everyone you meet. Whiter teeth and a brighter smile reflect a healthy, more youthful appearance. Teeth whitening, one of the most economical ways to enhance your smile, is an easy process that can positively impact your life.

According to a survey by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry:

• 99 percent of adults think that an attractive smile creates a healthier appearance and promotes a positive attitude to other people.
• 75 percent of adults think that an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s chance to get a good job and further career success.
• 60 percent of adults would whiten their teeth if teeth whitening services were affordable.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

As we age, our teeth often become yellower or darker due to stains and thinner enamel. The main causes of darkened teeth are usually the result of genetics, antibiotics and certain foods and liquids. External tooth yellowing typically occurs from tannins in foods and liquids and smoking. When internal tooth discoloration occurs, it’s typically caused by one or several of the following:

• Developmental disorders
• Tooth decay
• Root canal or restoration problems
• The use of antibiotics as a child, especially tetracyclines
• High levels of fluoride
• Trauma to the teeth or gums

Types of Teeth Whitening

The two most common types of teeth whitening are in-office treatments and do-it-yourself procedures with over the counter products. Professional, in-office teeth whitening in a dental office is the preferred whitening method for most people. In-office methods offers stronger tooth whitening agents and faster whitening results. The best whitening systems include a protective buffer in the gel that prevents damage to tooth enamel. Whitening systems, like Zoom, used for teeth whitening in Brooklyn NY, can actually brighten your teeth by as much as 10 shades and transform your smile in a single office visit. Often, in-office whitening procedures are combined with take-home whitening products to prolong a brighter smile.

Over-the-counter tooth whitening products like whitening strips, whitening gel, whitening toothpaste, and whitening gum can be purchased at most drug stores without a dentist’s supervision. They are popular because they are easy to use, inexpensive, and don’t require a dental visit. Although these products are typically safe to use, they don’t address oral concerns like tooth and gum sensitivity and possible infections. Many over-the-counter tooth products include whitening trays. If trays don’t fit your mouth properly, tooth whitening gel can leak onto your gums resulting in irritation and/or infection.

If you’re interested in whitening your teeth, an in-office procedure will give you better results and protect your teeth and gums from potential harm. When done properly and followed up with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, tooth whitening can last for several years.