Information on Natural Teeth Whitening

Natural Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening is one of the hot trends today and every year, increasing numbers of both men and women go for it. There are several different ways to whiten and brighten teeth. Chemical gels and bleaches using in laser teeth whitening procedures can give great results quite quickly. Another prominent trend visible today is the preference for natural products (those without chemical additives). Thus, there is an increasing demand for natural teeth whitening solutions.

There is a greater understanding that chemical whitening agents like carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide can do damage, however minor. This is why many people prefer natural teeth whitening products.

This is in fact a global trend and in response to the demand, a greater variety of natural teeth whitening products are appearing in the market. The effectiveness of these products is also going up.

Among the most common whitening products available are toothpastes containing various herbal ingredients that can reduce plaque accumulation on the teeth. They can also remove stains on the teeth. Both these results usually take place only over an extended timeframe – the products need to be used regularly for results to become visible.

What herbal / natural ingredients are commonly used in whitening products? There is a wide variety of such ingredients – including sodium chloride, bamboo powder, calcium carbonate, silica and others.

Tea tree oil is sometimes used along with other ingredients. This essential oil can reduce bacteria formation in the mouth and also control bad breath. Other essential oils that help include spearmint, almond and peppermint oils. One or more of these oils can be found in many natural teeth whitening products and even regular toothpastes that contain herbal ingredients.

These herbal products act not just to help teeth whitening but also improve oral health. This is one reason for the increasing preference for such products in comparison to chemical whitening agents.

In general, natural teeth whitening products tend to be less costly than their chemical counterparts. This makes it easier for people to try them out to satisfy their curiosity. Very often, they are happy with the results they see from natural products and tend to continue using them.

Many of these products do work fairly well. But there is a downside – they are quite slow in producing results. They must be used over a period of time before the teeth become whiter.

One of the big plus points is that these natural teeth whitening products do not produce any side effects. This is unlike chemical bleaching agents which can result in tissue damage and other problems if used incorrectly. Chemical based products must be used precisely according to instructions, or they are dangerous. Natural products generally do not pose such threats to health, even if they are not used exactly as recommended.

The action of the natural products is usually safer than those of chemical whiteners. Chemicals can damage the teeth enamel, which can cause long-term problems. They can also damage tissues, as mentioned above. Natural products don’t have such risks. This is a major reason why people use natural products, even when results can take longer to appear.

Natural remedies are based on scientific principles. It is known that common salt for instance, can improve enamel color and do it safely. These natural remedies are based on thousands of years of observation and knowledge. Their action has been proven scientifically and modern medicine makes use of many of the age-old remedies.

When using natural teeth whitening agents, it is best to avoid doing things that bring about teeth damage. These include drinking excess red wine, tea and coffee. Smoking is also a major cause of stained and damaged teeth (apart from the extensive damage it does to other body organs). Heavily advertised carbonated and flavored drinks do considerable teeth damage as well.

In summary, natural teeth whitening products can do what their chemical counterparts can, while being safer and free of undesirable side effects.

Teeth Whitening Clues

Homemade Teeth Whitening Gel

Many people are willing to do just about anything to have whiter teeth. No one likes the idea of having stained teeth on full display every time they smile. That accounts for the large market for whitening systems, including the teeth whitening gel. With a bit of looking around, it is possible to find a product that can fit your budget.

Despite their desire for whiter teeth, some people are unwilling to shell out the hundreds and thousands that it would cost to have a professional teeth whitening job done at the dentist’s clinic using laser teeth whitening and other popular procedures. Fortunately, there are whitening kits that can be used conveniently at home. They can cost anywhere from $30 to $300. Some of the better products on the market can make your teeth several shades whiter.

Making a teeth whitening gel at home can be an excellent alternative to commercial whitening systems and kits. The ingredients are readily available – you probably have them at home. If you make the gel correctly and use it consistently over a period of time, you are very likely to see good results. Also, home made teeth whitening gels are quite economical too.

The ingredients for making a teeth whitening gel at home are the same as those used in commercially available kits. Hydrogen peroxide is the chief ingredient – it is capable of erasing stains on teeth as well as killing bacteria. The local pharmacy will have hydrogen peroxide available as a three percent solution. Commercial whitening kits use a twenty two percent solution, so their results will be significantly faster.

Sodium bicarbonate is the second ingredient that is used in making teeth whitening gels. This chemical is popularly known as baking soda. It has antiseptic properties and can remove stains too. It can also neutralize acidic mediums.

Glycerin is the third ingredient needed for the gel. It is readily available in health food shops, pharmacies and most grocery stores. Glycerin has the property of immobilizing bacteria. Since bacteria must constantly move about in order to stay alive, glycerin can effectively kill bacteria.

Here is how you can make a teeth whitening gel from the above ingredients. Take a teaspoon of baking soda. Pour a few drops of glycerin into it. Mix in the glycerin well until the baking soda is a paste. It should be fully moist, although it should not be runny. Next, take a glass full of water and add two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide to it.

Wet a toothbrush with the hydrogen peroxide solution. Brush it over the paste you made so that some of it sticks to the toothbrush. Brush your teeth well with this gel. While doing so, continue to wet the toothbrush intermittently with hydrogen peroxide. After you finish brushing your teeth, rinse your mouth thoroughly with the hydrogen peroxide solution.

If you continue to use this home made teeth whitening gel, you will find that your teeth gradually acquire a lighter color. A gain of several shades is possible over time.

Using this teeth whitening gel has other benefits as well. It can eliminate harmful bacteria in the mouth thus reducing the risks of developing gum disease and other health problems. In addition, it is far more economical than getting professional teeth whitening done by a dentist. Using the teeth whitening gel is also more economical than using commercial whitening kits.

Teeth Whitening Kits

Reviews of Teeth Whitening Kits

Teeth whitening kits are a relatively recent phenomenon. Till a decade or so back, if you wanted to whiten your teeth, you had to go across to the dentist’s office to get it done. Many people found this to be quite wearisome, even though the dentist’s procedures did produce good results.

Many marketers realized that people would pay for good teeth whitening kits that they could use in the comfort of their own homes. Thus, there came a flood of products into the market all promising pearly-white teeth. You can find these kits in many different kinds of retail outlets including chemists’ shops, grocery stores and more.

These kits are quite affordable when compared to the costs involved in getting a dentist to do the whitening job (for example, laser teeth whitening can commonly cost up to $1500). And cosmetic dentistry is often not covered by health insurance plans, so cost is a consideration. This was another major selling point for the teeth whitening kits.

Let’s take a look at some of the common whitening kits available on the market.

Many people have achieved good results with the Zoom Weekender’s Kit. This kit can whiten teeth by a maximum of six shades with just three applications. The kit can be used at home, without any need for a dentist’s supervision. The downside is that each application need to be in place for anywhere from four to six hours, which is quite a long time, even when you are doing it at home. This product is a good seller and there have been favorable consumer reviews about it.

The Supernova Whitening Kit is another product on the market. It is said to work quite reliably. Those who wish to whiten their teeth can make casts of their own teeth. The whitening gel is placed into trays made based on these casts. The kit offers detailed, step by step instructions on how to go about the process. In addition, the company offers your money back if you are not satisfied with the product. Overall, many purchasers have found this kit to be useful.

There are also teeth whitening kits that use a generic tray instead of a custom built one. The Aquafresh White Tray is an example. You have to fill the tray they supply with the whitening gel. The company does not disclose the concentration of hydrogen peroxide it uses, claiming it to be proprietary information. The major downside is that because it uses a generically designed tray, it is not possible to protect the gums and lips from the hydrogen peroxide gel. This means that the gums and lips may come into contact with the gel, resulting in pain and discomfort. This is usually temporary, though.

The Crest Whitestrips Premium is another popular whitening kit. It costs considerably less than the Zoom kit mentioned above. Unfortunately, the results are not as long lasting as those obtained with Zoom. The system uses strips coated with special compounds to achieve the whitening. These strips must be placed directly on the areas where the stains are present. This is a serious disadvantage if the stains are in difficult to reach locations. The kit can produce teeth that are three shades lighter. The strips must be kept in place for about half an hour twice daily.

There are other types of teeth whitening kits also available. It is best to consult your dentist before buying one.

Teeth Whitening Consultation

Before Using Teeth Whitening Products

If you are like many people, you are tired of seeing two rows of yellowing teeth every time you look in the mirror. That is when you start thinking about using teeth whitening products. The bad news is that as the years pass, our teeth tend to lose their natural pearly white color because of the stains left behind by coffee, tea, red wine and many other food items. The good news – many of the teeth whitening products available can at least partially reverse teeth discoloration.

Thanks to the easy availability of teeth whitening products, many people no longer settle for yellow or stained teeth. Of course, it is best to get teeth whitening done professionally at the dentist’s office with procedures such as laser teeth whitening.

As an alternative, there are a number of teeth whitening products available on the market today. These include specially formulated tooth pastes as well as complete teeth whitening kits. Your dentist will be able to advise you on what whitening system will suit your particular condition best.

The sales of these products have been skyrocketing in recent years. Dentists’ offices too have seen an increase in the number of patients who come solely to obtain teeth whitening services.

Tray-based teeth whitening products are a very popular option for those who wish to whiten their teeth at home. These products make use of a special gel. A clear plastic tray filled with the gel is placed over the teeth.

In most cases, the tray must be left in place for several hours – often overnight, throughout sleep. The procedure must be repeated regularly for a few weeks. Many people find that their teeth are several shades whiter at the end of this period of time.

Teeth whitening products designed to be used at home without a dentist’s supervision usually contain lower concentrations of hydrogen peroxide as compared to the products used in a dentist’s office. Regardless of what product you choose, you should make sure that it is clinically tested to be safe and effective.

The product should be capable of providing lasting results, while creating no undesirable side effects. Unfortunately, many products sold in the market can do damage to your teeth. It is best to get your dentist’s approval before using whitening products.

In search of safer alternatives, some people turn to natural teeth whitening products. Some of these products contain silica, bamboo powder, sodium chloride and calcium carbonate. These products have seen an upswing in popularity in recent years as more and more people want better looking teeth.

Some of these natural products have proven to be fairly effective for many people. The basic ingredients are easily available and preparing the product is easy too. Natural teeth whitening products can be quite economical as compared to spending thousands of dollars for a professional whitening job done at a dentists’.

The downside is, these natural products act far more slowly as compared to the results you can get when a dentist does teeth whitening. Many people want instant results. There is also no dearth of products available that are advertised as being able to deliver instant whiteness. Many of these natural products are not prone to dangerous side effects, so the longer wait for whiter teeth may well be worth it.

Always consult your dentist before using any kind of teeth whitening system by yourself. He will be able to help you make the right choices when buying teeth whitening products.

Teeth Whitening Review

Reviews of Teeth Whiteners

Having a bright smile does wonders for your appearance. Many people place such importance on an attractive smile that their self esteem and confidence goes up when they whiten their teeth! It should be no surprise that many people are in search of teeth whitening reviews to help decide which whitening system to use to obtain that brilliant smile.

The sad truth is that most of us do not have pearly white teeth. Enamel is a porous substance and so can easily become stained. Apart from the usual causes of yellow teeth like drinking coffee, tea, etc, it is known that antibiotics can also result in yellowing of tooth enamel. Irrespective of the reason for your yellowed teeth, read through these teeth whitening reviews and you will be in a better position to decide which product of procedure is best for you.

Of course, remember to consult your dentist before you actually use any whitening system.

One of the best ways to whiten teeth is to ask the dentist to prescribe and implement a teeth whitening process for you taking your particular situation into consideration. The dentist has many options for whitening teeth.

One of the most commonly used procedures is laser teeth whitening: a combination of whitening gel and laser light. The gel is applied to the teeth. It may contain bleaching chemicals and other ingredients. Next, the dentist activates the gel by shining a bright laser on it. The light causes the chemical reactions to take place at a faster pace thus speeding up the whitening process.

The whole process is usually repeated multiple times until the desired whitening effect is achieved.

Since the process is done in a dentist’s office, the risks are minimized as compared to whitening processes you implement on your own at home. Usually, the results are visible quickly too. On the flip side, the costs are considerably more than that of over-the-counter whitening kits. Some persons also end up with very unpleasant tooth sensitivity after they have a whitening procedure done.

Your dentist will be able to clearly explain the risks and benefits of any procedure before you go ahead with it.

Many people would also like to read about teeth whitening reviews about products prescribed by the dentist that can be used at home. There are highly effective whitening kits available that can do a great job in the comfort of your home. Very often, these kits are prescribed as an add-on to the treatment the dentist does in his clinic. But they can also be used as a stand-alone whitening treatment option.

Teeth whitening gel trays prescribed by the dentist are among such products and are very commonly used nowadays. The trays are filled with a special gel and placed in the mouth. You must then bite down gently and hold it in position. The gel acts to whiten the teeth. The amount of time the tray must be kept in place will be prescribed by the dentist. It can vary from as little a fifteen minutes to as much as an hour.

This process takes longer to achieve results as compared to whitening done in the dentist’s office. It must usually be repeated several times to see results.

Plenty of people also want to read about teeth whitening reviews for over-the-counter kits. Chemist’s shops and many other retail stores carry a wide range of teeth whitening kits that can be used at home. The big plus is that they are quite cheap (especially as compared to getting a whitening job done on the dentist’s office). In addition, the whitening can be done conveniently at home.

Unfortunately, these kits are also the least effective way to whiten teeth. This applies for gels, whitening gums, whitening strips and other such products. Each of these products must be used many times before any noticeable effect can be seen. Despite this limitation, these products are hot sellers currently and their demand has been growing.

The above teeth whitening reviews should help you become better informed when visiting your dentist to decide on a whitening system that is right for you.

Laser & Zoom Teeth Whitening

Long-time smokers can often see evidence of their smoking habit in the form of ugly stains on their teeth. Even drinking tea and coffee can, over the years, leave the teeth looking yellow and aged. Laser teeth whitening procedures can help remove these stains and restore the natural beauty of teeth. Laser teeth whitening can often produce noticeable improvements in just one sitting.

There are many brand names associated with this procedure, like Rembrandt, Zoom Teeth Whitening and BriteSmile. Some of them claim to be able to produce results in just an hour, although this is not always possible in cases of heavy discoloration. Such cases may require multiple sessions to get the desired results.

The laser teeth whitening process begins with the dentist cleaning the teeth to remove debris and accumulated plaque. These substances can render the procedure less effective if they are not adequately removed. The dentist then applies a whitening gel to the teeth. The laser is then used and acts by activating the gel and getting it to work quickly.

Because a whitening gel is used, some people argue that the improvement in teeth color is due to the gel and not because of the laser. But as many have found, laser treatment produces faster improvements in teeth color as compared to many other procedures. The need for multiple sessions is often eliminated. Laser teeth whitening has gained more and more adherents in recent years.

The Rembrandt teeth whitening system is one of the popular laser systems. It uses a plasma arc light to activate the whitening gel. Many patients have obtained excellent results with this system, with their teeth becoming lighter by as much as six to eight shades.

Zoom laser teeth whitening is another well known brand. Like other brands, it uses an activating laser and has a tray option. Using the tray can lighten teeth color over a period of several days.

BriteSmile is also a widely used brand in this market. They claim to be able to produce exceptional results. Patients have reported being able to improve teeth color by many shades relatively quickly.

What are the costs associated with laser teeth whitening? To provide a comparison, it is possible to purchase a basic teeth whitening kit at stores for just a few dollars. There are also high-end whitening gels available for around $120. In contrast, laser teeth whitening can cost anywhere from $600 to $1200… or even more. Prices can vary depending on the kind of treatment, the number of sessions required and the dentist involved.

Among the positives of this treatment is that since it is done at a dentist’s clinic, the gels used will be professional quality peroxides. The systems available for purchase at a grocery store will be much less effective. In general, the higher the peroxide concentration, the faster the whitening effect will be evident. So this treatment is ideal for those who need results at the earliest.

Many people desire to have a brighter smile because it makes them feel good and boosts their confidence. Laser teeth whitening has become the treatment of choice for many patients because of its ease and the speed at which it delivers results. Check with your dentist to see if it is the right solution for you.

Best teeth whitening

The Best Teeth Whitening

It wasn’t very long ago that effective teeth whitening options didn’t even exist. If you had discolored teeth, you just had to put up with it and hope that your teeth didn’t become any darker than they already were. Some people with discolored teeth were even reluctant to smile because they were afraid to reveal their teeth to others. Thankfully, things started changing about a generation ago.

Today, there are many teeth whitening options available that can take discolored teeth and make them look bright and new.

Why is teeth whitening necessary in the first place? Over the years, our teeth tend to yellow. This can happen because of drinking coffee, tea, red wine, etc. It can also happen if the person is a smoker – tobacco can put nasty stains on the teeth.

Today’s teeth whitening systems can result in whiter and brighter teeth. Many of these whitening procedures are fairly simple and quick to execute.

In addition to whitening teeth, today’s dental procedures (such as bonding) also allow defective teeth to be repaired. You no longer have to put up with chips and breaks in your teeth. Coupled with teeth whitening, these fast dental procedures can considerably enhance the beauty of your teeth. Many of these procedures are surprisingly inexpensive too.

Teeth whitening can be done in a number of ways. Options include laser teeth whitening, chemical whitening, whitening with mild acidic solutions, whitening using abrasives and professional whitening done at home.

The dentist usually starts the whitening process in his clinic. The procedure is often completed at the patient’s home using mouth trays. A mouth tray is a means of applying a dental whitening solution to the teeth. In some cases, it needs to be worn for just half an hour, while other cases require the mouth tray to stay in place for a couple hours.

Many people have only minor discoloration of their teeth. In such cases, a simple whitening treatment done at the dentist’s office will often result in teeth that are noticeably brighter. These procedures take a few hours at most.

Of course, others have a high degree of discoloration as well as many other cosmetic dental problems. Fortunately, current dental procedures can deal with most of them…although it may need to be broken down into several steps, depending on complexity.

A straightforward bleaching process may be able to brighten teeth in cases of mild discoloration. More stubborn stains may require micro-abrasion scrubs using an acidic medium. Dentists can also make use of porcelain veneers which can last up to a decade. They are excellent for creating an even look in cases where the tooth surface is uneven. Veneers can also be used to hide unsightly gaps between teeth.

For more serious problems, dental implants can be used. These are permanent and will last throughout life, thus effectively curing the problem of missing teeth. Dentists today have a remedy for practically any kind of cosmetic dental problem you may have. Cosmetic issues can go well beyond the need for teeth whitening. And many of these solutions require just one single visit to implement.

In summary, teeth whitening can result in teeth that are better looking and a few shades brighter than discolored teeth. These procedures have proved to be a big confidence booster for many people.

More Information on Teeth Whitening

Teeth Whitening

Whether you are self-conscious because you have yellowed teeth from smoking or drinking coffee, or if you just want to look your best, teeth whitening is a sure way to brighten your smile and gain increased confidence in your appearance. Learn more about teeth whitening techniques and methods as well as the cost of teeth whitening by reading the sections below.

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening falls under the category of cosmetic dentistry. The teeth whitening process eliminates discoloration and stains on the teeth, and can also brighten the natural pigmentation of the teeth. The degree of improvement will depend upon how severely the teeth are stained or discolored as well as the nature of the stains. When teeth are brown or yellow due to coffee, tea, or smoking, stains will generally lighten four to five shades. Teeth that are gray due to natural pigmentation or antibiotics use will lighten two to three shades. Regardless, your teeth will be noticeably brighter after teeth whitening. While there are a number of over-the-counter teeth whitening methods that make various claims, only a dental professional can recommend the most effective teeth whitening treatment for you.

Teeth Whitening Techniques

The most effective teeth whitening techniques available today are in-office laser teeth whitening and at-home teeth whitening with custom-fit trays. Both teeth whitening techniques are best performed under your dentist's supervision to ensure the safest results.

In-Office Laser Tooth Whitening

In-office teeth whitening methods are performed with bleaching gel and laser light. This is a good method of teeth whitening for sensitive teeth, as the process may be closely monitored by the cosmetic dentist. The teeth are carefully isolated from the lips and gums, and then a bleaching gel is applied to them. A laser is used in conjunction with the gel to accelerate and amplify the teeth whitening process.

At-Home Teeth Whitening

There are several choices for those who are interested in at-home teeth whitening methods. Your cosmetic dentist can take imprints of your teeth and then make custom-fitted trays for you to take home to complete the teeth whitening process. There are also teeth bleaching kits and other over-the-counter teeth whitening products available to brighten your smile.

Teeth Whitening Systems

Teeth whitening systems usually involve in-office applications of gel to the teeth and then the application of light in order to activate the gel. Popular teeth whitening systems include Zoom!®, Britesmile®, and Rembrandt® Teeth Whitening. Other teeth whitening products include a variety of whitening toothpastes and "paint-on" whitening products and whitening strips.

Teeth Whitening Side Effects

The gel that is used in various teeth whitening methods causes the teeth to be temporarily sensitive to hot and cold foods, drinks, and even to air. Trays used to bleach teeth can also cause sensitivity, primarily to the gums. Because of this, teeth whitening for sensitive teeth may best be performed in a dental office. Also, some over-the-counter products may wear down the enamel of the teeth if used overzealously. For this reason, and because in-office treatments are more effective, it is best to seek teeth whitening treatment under the supervision of a cosmetic dentist.

Cost of Teeth Whitening

The cost of teeth whitening varies according to the type of teeth whitening method - whether professional in-office or at-home. In-office teeth whitening may cost between $100 and $800, while at-home bleaching trays that are custom fit by a dentist may cost between $300 and $2,000. The cost of teeth whitening also varies depending on the cosmetic dentist and the area or city of his or her practice. Cosmetic dentistry financing is often available.

More laser teeth whitening

More on Laser teeth whitening

There are several teeth whitening products and procedures available today that can help you to brighten your smile and remove stains from your teeth. Each of these methods works effectively and offers benefits as well as disadvantages. Choosing the right procedure for your own teeth will depend on a number of different factors. Laser teeth whitening is an excellent way to correct discolored teeth and can help you to have a much brighter and whiter smile in a very short period of time.
In-office laser teeth whitening procedures are very common and are also the most expensive option. Your dentist or specialist will use a special laser light along with whitening or bleaching gel to remove stains and whiten the enamel on your teeth. This procedure is typically followed up with a kit that you will use at home to further brighten your smile. During the whitening process, your dentist or hygienist will apply a bleaching gel to your teeth. A special laser light is then used to activate crystals in the gel which absorb energy from the laser. This light, along with the gel then penetrates your tooth enamel and gives you a much whiter smile. The average time for this procedure is around two hours but may be more or less depending on the amount of whitening that you need. The cost of an in-office laser whitening procedure can run anywhere from $500 to just over $700 depending on your dentist and the amount of discoloration that you have on your teeth prior to the procedure.
With in-office laser teeth whitening, you will notice a significant improvement in the color of your teeth instantly. It typically only takes one visit to get you a beautiful, bright smile again depending on the degree of discoloration of your teeth when you have the procedure done. Most patients will see a noticeable improvement after just one visit. This is the fastest way to brighten your smile but again, it is also the most expensive. If you want instant results, in-office laser whitening is the best choice.
If it is important for you to have whiter, brighter teeth, laser teeth whitening procedures are an excellent choice. It is important to note that some patients have reported short-term disadvantages to laser teeth whitening such as soreness in the gums and teeth from the bleach gel that is used. This problem tends to disappear completely just a few days after the procedure however and is typically not a terrible complication. Some patients may simply be more sensitive to chemicals and lasers than others. If you experience a problem after your whitening procedure, you should inform your dentist so that he or she can check you for tooth sensitivity.
In order for laser teeth whitening to be completely effective, it needs to be a long-term commitment. While your dentist’s office can certainly whiten your teeth, you should be aware of certain foods and habits that tend to discolor teeth and can reverse the effects of your laser whitening. Drinking certain beverages such as coffee, tea and red wines can color the teeth as can certain foods like blueberries. Smoking also tends to dull the teeth and discolor them. If you are planning to pay for laser teeth whitening procedures to brighten your smile, you should be aware of simply lifestyle changes that can help you to maintain your healthier smile.
Most insurance companies will not pay for laser teeth whitening as this is considered to be a cosmetic procedure. Given the cost of whitening can be well over $1,000 in many areas, it is important to do whatever you can to keep your teeth white and healthy after your procedure to ensure that you do not have to undergo the procedure again in the near future.

More information on teeth whitening

What Is Teeth Whitening?

Teeth whitening lightens teeth and helps to remove stains and discoloration. Teeth Whitening is among the most popular cosmetic dental procedures because it can greatly improve how your teeth look. Most dentists perform Teeth whitening.

Teeth Whitening is not a one-time procedure. It will need to be repeated from time to time if you want to maintain the brighter color.

What Teeth Whitening Used For

The outer layer of a Teeth is called the enamel. The color of natural teeth is created by the reflection and scattering of light off the enamel, combined with the color of the dentin under it. Your genes affect the thickness and smoothness of the enamel. Thinner enamel allows more of the color of the dentin to show through. Having smoother or rougher enamel also affects the reflection of light and therefore the color.

Every day, a thin coating (pellicle) forms on the enamel and picks up stains. Teeth enamel also contains pores that can hold stains.

The most common reasons for teeth to get yellow or stained are:

• Using tobacco
• Drinking dark-colored liquids such as coffee, cola, tea and red wine
• Not taking good care of your teeth

Aging also makes teeth less bright as the enamel gets thinner and the dentin becomes darker.

It is also possible to have stains inside the Teeth. These are called intrinsic stains. For example, intrinsic stains can be caused by exposure to too much fluoride as a child while teeth are developing. Other causes include tetracycline antibiotics. They can stain a child's teeth if taken by a mother during the second half of pregnancy or by a child who is 8 years old or younger. Teeth are still developing during these years. Trauma may also darken a Teeth.

Teeth whitening is most effective on surface (extrinsic) stains.

Preparation Teeth Whitening

Other dental problems can affect the success of Teeth whitening. For example, cavities need to be treated before teeth are whitened. That's because the teeth whitening solution can pass through decayed areas and reach the inner parts of the Teeth. If your gums have receded, the exposed roots of your teeth may appear yellow or discolored. Teeth Whitening products will not make them whiter.

If you have Teeth decay or receding gums, teeth whitening may make your teeth sensitive. Teeth Whitening also does not work on ceramic or porcelain crowns or veneers.

Teeth Whitening can be done in the dental office or at home. For in-office teeth whitening, your dentist probably will photograph your teeth first. This step will help him or her to monitor the progress of the treatment. Your dentist also will examine your teeth and ask you questions to find out what caused the staining.

Next, the dentist or a dental hygienist will clean your teeth. This will remove the film of bacteria, food and other substances that build up on your teeth and contribute to the staining. Once this is done, the whitening procedure begins.

For w teeth hitening at home, your dentist can make trays to hold the teeth whitening gel that fit your teeth precisely. Home teeth whitening gel usually needs to be applied daily for two to three weeks. Over-the-counter kits also are widely available for home use. They provide trays to hold the gel, or teeth whitening strips that stick to your teeth. Talk to your dentist if you want to use these home products. Be sure to follow directions to avoid overuse and possible damage to your teeth and mouth.

How Teeth Whitening Done?

There are two main types of Teeth whitening procedures. Non-vital Teeth whitening is done on a Teeth that has had root-canal treatment and no longer has a live nerve. Vital Teeth whitening is performed on teeth that have live nerves.

Non-Vital Teeth Whitening

Vital Teeth whitening may not improve the appearance of a Teeth that has had root-canal treatment because the stain is coming from the inside of the Teeth. If this is the case, your dentist will use a different procedure that whitens the Teeth from the inside. He or she will place a Teeth whitening agent inside the Teeth and put a temporary filling over it. The Teeth will be left this way for several days. You may need this done only once, or it can be repeated until the Teeth reaches the desired shade.

Vital Teeth Whitening

The most common type of vital Teeth whitening uses a gel-like Teeth whitening solution that is applied directly to the Teeth surface. This product contains some form of hydrogen peroxide.

Teeth whitening can be done in the dentist's office or at home. In-office (chairside) Teeth whitening allows your dentist to use a more powerful Teeth whitening gel. A specialized light or laser activates the gel and allows bleaching to happen faster.

In-office Teeth whitening usually takes 30 to 90 minutes. You will need one to three appointments. The number will depend upon the method used, how severe your stains are and how white you want your teeth to be. Different types of stains respond differently to the treatment.

First, your dentist will apply a substance that covers and protects the gums around the teeth. Then, the Teeth whitening agent, usually hydrogen peroxide, will be placed on the teeth.

Some Teeth whitening agents are activated by a laser light, special lights or by the heat from these lights. After the Teeth whitening agent is applied, the dentist will shine the light on your teeth. If your teeth are badly discolored, your dentist may suggest that you continue the bleaching process at home for a few days or weeks.

For in-home Teeth whitening, your dentist will take impressions of your upper and lower teeth and will make custom mouthpieces to fit you. The mouthpiece needs to fit well. A close fit helps the Teeth whitening agent remain in contact with your teeth.

At home, you will fill each mouthpiece with a Teeth whitening gel your dentist provides. You will wear the mouthpiece for several hours every day. Many people achieve the amount of Teeth whitening they want within a week or two. However, you may need to wear the mouthpiece for four weeks or longer.

You also can buy Teeth whitening products over the counter. They contain a weaker Teeth whitening agent than the products you can get from your dentist. Therefore, Teeth whitening may take longer. The Teeth whitening agent is applied as a gel placed in a mouthpiece or as a strip that sticks to your teeth. Over-the-counter mouthpieces fit less securely than the kind you get from your dentist.

Teeth Whitening Teethpastes are available as well. They contain abrasives that remove stains on the enamel. They do not actually change the overall color of your teeth.

Follow-Up Teeth Whitening

If you find that your gums are white or sore, follow up with your dentist.

Teeth Whitening is not a permanent solution. The stains will come back. If you smoke or consume a lot of staining foods or drinks, you may see the whiteness start to fade in as little as one month. If you avoid these sources of staining, you may not need another Teeth whitening treatment for 6 to 12 months.

Re-whitening Teeth can be done in the dentist's office or at home. If you have a custom-made mouthpiece and whitening agent at home, you can whiten your teeth as frequently as you need to. Discuss your whitening schedule with your dentist. You can talk about what Teeth whitening products would work best for you.

Risks of Teeth Whitening

Whitening is unlikely to cause serious side effects, although some people's teeth may become more sensitive for a short while. You may get mild gum irritation as well. Women should not have their teeth whitened while pregnant. The effect of the Teeth whitening materials on the development of the fetus is not known. Since the procedure is cosmetic, it should be postponed until after delivery.

When To Call a Professional

If you feel your teeth would benefit from Teeth whitening, contact your dentist to discuss the procedure.

Teeth whitening

Dental whitening, also known as teeth whitening, is a common procedure in general dentistry but most especially in the field of cosmetic dentistry. A child's deciduous teeth are generally whiter than the adult teeth that follow. As a person ages the adult teeth often become darker due to changes in the mineral structure of the teeth, as the enamel becomes less porous. Teeth can also become stained by bacterial pigments, foodstuffs and tobacco. Certain antibiotic medications (like tetracycline) can also lead to teeth stains or a reduction in the brilliance of the enamel

There are many methods to whiten teeth: whitening strips, whitening pen, whitening gel, laser whitening, and natural whitening. Traditionally, at-home whitening is done with whitening gel which is applied to the teeth using thin guard trays. At-home whitening can also be done by applying small strips that go over the front teeth. Oxidizing agents such as hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide are used to lighten the shade of the teeth. The oxidizing agent penetrates the porosities in the rod-like crystal structure of enamel and oxidizes interprismatic stain deposits; over a period of time, the dentin layer, lying underneath the enamel, is also bleached. Power whitening uses light energy to accelerate the process of whitening in a dental surgery. The effects of whitening can last for several months, but may vary depending on the lifestyle of the patient. Factors which will decrease whitening include smoking and the ingestion of dark colored liquids like coffee, tea and red wine.

Internal staining of dentine can discolor the teeth from inside out. Internal whitening can remedy this. If heavy staining or tetracycline damage is present on a patient's teeth, and whitening is ineffective, there are other methods of whitening teeth. Bonding, when a thin coating of composite material is applied to the front of a person's teeth and then cured with a blue light can be performed to mask the staining. A veneer can also mask teeth discoloration.

Methods of Teeth Whitening

There are two main methods of gel whitening—one performed with high-concentration gel, and another with low-concentration agents. High-concentration whitening can be accomplished either in the dental office, or at home. Performing the procedure at home is accomplished using high-concentration carbamide peroxide, which is readily available online or in dental stores and is much more cost-effective than the in-office procedure. Whitening is performed by applying a high concentration of oxidizing agent to the teeth with thin plastic trays for a short period of time, which produces quick results. The application trays ideally should be well-fitted to retain the whitening gel, ensuring even and full teeth exposure to the gel. Trays will typically stay on the teeth for about 15–20 minutes. Trays are then removed and the procedure is repeated up to two more times. Most in-office whitening procedures use a light-cured protective layer that is carefully painted on the gums and papilla (the tips of the gums between the teeth) in order to reduce the risk of chemical burns to the soft tissues. The whitening agent is either carbamide peroxide, which breaks down in the mouth to form hydrogen peroxide, or hydrogen peroxide itself. The whitening gel typically contains between 10% and 44% carbamide peroxide (15% is recommended) which is roughly equivalent to 3-10% hydrogen peroxide concentration.

Low-concentration whitening is far less effective, and is generally only performed at home. Low-concentration whitening involves purchasing a thin mouthguard or strip that holds a relatively low concentration of oxidizing agent next to the teeth for as long as several hours a day for a period of 5 to 14 days. Results can vary, depending on which application is chosen, with some people achieving whiter teeth in a few days, and others seeing very little results or no results at all. Whitening is potentially better at a dentist because the strip or mouth-guard does not completely conform to the shape of the teeth, sometimes leaving the tips of the teeth (near the gumline) unbleached. The whitening agent is typically less than 10% hydrogen peroxide equivalent, so irritation to the soft tissue around teeth is minimized. Dentists as well as some dental laboratories can fabricate custom fitted whitening trays that will greatly improve the results achieved with an over-the-counter whitening method.

A typical course of whitening can produce dramatic improvements in the cosmetic appearance of most stained teeth; however, some stains do not respond to whitening. Tetracycline staining may require prolonged whitening, as it takes longer for the bleach to reach the dentine layer. Case studies have been performed on people with tetracycline stained teeth. They used Custom Bleaching Trays every night for 6 months and saw dramatic results and improvement. White-spot decalcifications may also be highlighted and become more noticeable directly following a whiting process, but usually calm back down with the other parts of the teeth becoming more white. The white spots become less noticeably with the other parts of the teeth becoming more white0. Bleaching is not recommended if teeth have decay or infected gums. It is also least effective when the original teeth color is grayish and may require custom whitening trays. Bleaching is most effective with yellow discolored teeth.

Power or light-accelerated whitening, sometimes colloquially referred to as laser whitening, uses light energy to accelerate the process of whitening in a dental office. Different types of energy can be used in this procedure, with the most common being halogen, LED, or plasma arc. Clinical trials have demonstrated that among these three options, halogen light is the best source for producing optimal treatment results. The ideal source of energy should be high energy to excite the peroxide molecules without overheating the pulp of the teeth. Lights are typically within the blue light spectrum as this has been found to contain the most effective wavelengths for initiating the hydrogen peroxide reaction. A power whitening treatment typically involves isolation of soft tissue with a resin-based, light-curable barrier, application of a professional dental-grade hydrogen peroxide whitening gel (25-38% hydrogen peroxide), and exposure to the light source for 6–15 minutes. Recent technical advances have minimized heat and ultraviolet emissions, allowing a less time-intensive patient preparation procedure. Most power teeth whitening treatments can be done in approximately 30 minutes to one hour, in a single visit to a dental physician. Treatment times and recommendations are dependent on the condition of a person’s teeth at time of treatment.