A Few Secrets About Teeth Whitening
Over the past decade, teeth whitening has revolutionized both in dental clinics and at home. Whether you’re visiting a Hillsboro dentist or trying a DIY approach, understanding the options for achieving whiter teeth is essential. Let’s delve into a few secrets that dentists might not openly share about teeth whitening.
Method #1: Dental (In-Office) Teeth Whitening
Hillsboro’s dental offices are well-equipped for in-office teeth whitening, which has evolved significantly since the early ’90s. Back then, dentists required custom molds and several visits to achieve noticeable results, all at a hefty price of $500 – $1,000. Today, advanced techniques like Laser Bleaching, Power Bleaching, and Argon Bleaching have become the norm. These methods involve applying a concentrated peroxide gel to your teeth, followed by exposure to a special light, which speeds up the whitening process. While effective, these procedures still command high prices and might necessitate periodic touch-ups or additional home whitening kits.
Method #2: Home Teeth Whitening
Thanks to improvements in technology, home teeth whitening can now rival the results achieved in a Hillsboro dental office. Here are three popular at-home options:
Option #1: Brush-On Whitening
Brush-on whitening products sound convenient—simply apply, let dry, and leave overnight. However, they rely on complete dryness to work correctly, which saliva can easily disrupt, leading to uneven whitening. Additionally, these products often contain alcohol, which can cause bad breath, and glycerin, which may increase tooth sensitivity by drawing moisture from the enamel.
Option #2: Whitening Strips
Whitening strips are favored for their ease of use, adhering to teeth with minimal preparation. Yet, their simplicity can lead to uneven whitening since they might not reach the grooves and recesses between teeth. This can result in a patchy appearance, where gaps and crevices remain darker.
Option #3: Trays with Bleaching Gels
Trays with bleaching gels offer a balance of affordability and effectiveness. Many dental professionals use similar gels, but store-bought versions can be less potent due to prolonged storage and lower concentrations of active ingredients. These gels typically contain glycerin, which, when combined with carbamide peroxide, can heighten tooth sensitivity by depleting enamel moisture.
How to Maximize Teeth Whitening Results
With this understanding of different teeth whitening methods, consider these four tips to ensure the best outcomes:
1. Pre-Whitening Preparation: Brush your teeth with an oxygenating toothpaste that contains natural polishing agents and aloe vera. This ensures the whitening gel directly contacts tooth enamel rather than plaque, reducing sensitivity.
2. Customized Mouth Trays: Use trays that fit snugly around each tooth. The best systems involve moldable trays that adapt to your unique dental shape, enhancing contact with the whitening gel.
3. Concentrated Whitening Gel: Opt for a 21% carbamide peroxide gel without glycerin to minimize sensitivity. A flavored gel can make the experience more pleasant.
4. Post-Whitening Care: Use an oxygenating oral rinse immediately after whitening. Avoid rinses with alcohol to prevent interference with the bleaching process and to keep your mouth hydrated.
By following this home teeth whitening regimen for five consecutive days, you can achieve a brighter smile that matches the results of professional treatments. Remember, for optimal comfort, you can whiten the upper and lower arches separately.
Ready for a dazzling smile? Contact East Wind Hillsboro Dental Care at 503-614-0198 to learn why we’re Hillsboro’s top choice in dental care. Visit us at www.eastwinddentalcare.com or drop by 7546 NE Shaleen St, Hillsboro, OR 97124. Call today and experience the whitening difference!