Teeth Whitening
Honestly speaking, many of us have seen our once bright smiles turn a bit yellow. Age, what we eat and drink, and smoking are usually to blame. Even if you are really careful with your teeth, it is tough to keep them as white as when you were a kid. That is why lots of people try teeth whitening to perk up their smile. But people often ask:
- Is it safe?
- Could it harm your teeth?
- How long does it last?
If you have been wondering about these things too, this guide will help you find answers. Let’s find out what you should know about teeth whitening.
Why Whiten Your Teeth?
It used to be that only movie stars got their teeth whitened, but not anymore. Now it is easier and cheaper for everyone to do it. People whiten their teeth for various of reasons:
- To get a brighter smile
- To get rid of embarrassing stains
- As an affordable way to change their look
- Some people get stains only on the top or bottom of their teeth and want them all to be the same shade
Why Do Teeth Turn Yellow?
The outer part of your teeth (the enamel) forms before you are born. It is what makes teeth look white at first. As you get older, this enamel wears down, showing the darker stuff underneath. You can’t stop this from happening. Plus, teeth get stained over time.
Remember, yellow teeth don’t always mean you are not taking care of them. Some of it is just genetics, and you can’t really avoid everything that stains your teeth like coffee or tea.
Different Ways to Whiten Teeth
There are three main ways to whiten teeth:
- Take-Home Kits from the Dentist
These are efficient and you can use them at home. They work well if you follow the instructions, but they can be a bit of a hassle to use.
- Whitening at the Dentist’s Office
This is quick as it takes less than an hour. It can make your teeth one or two shades lighter. Here Is a quick breakdown on how it is done:
- They protect your gums
- They put a special gel on your teeth
- You don’t need any uncomfortable lights
- Drugstore Whitening Products
These are the cheapest option. They are easy to get but don’t work as well as what you’d get from a dentist.
Dr. Michael Martinez
Master of Dentistry
Picking the Right Way for You
When you are deciding which method to whiten your teeth, think about:
- How much you want to spend
- How white you want your teeth
- How much time you have If your teeth are sensitive
It is a good idea to talk to a dentist. They can check your teeth, tell you about any side effects, and help you choose what is best for you.
Don’t forget, even if you whiten your teeth, you still need to take care of them. Keep brushing, flossing, and seeing your dentist regularly.
To wrap it up, teeth whitening can be a safe way to feel better about your smile if you do it right. If you understand how it works and pick the best method for you, you can get a brighter, nicer-looking smile.