The History of Dentistry
DIY Teeth Bleaching: Do You Have the Right Information?
Regina Carlson
DIY teeth whitening has gained popularity with both teenagers and adults as they seek a beautiful smile. The number of whitening kits, toothpastes and gels that claim to whiten yellow, stained and darkened teeth are increasing by the day. You may find yourself confused by these products and the numerous whitening tutorials and procedures. Acquiring the right information on teeth whitening is critical to the success of the procedure. So how do you ensure that you are doing it right? Read on for some insights and advice that you can utilise before carrying out DIY teeth whitening at home.
Effects of DIY teeth whitening
When done correctly, DIY teeth whitening using over-the-counter whiteners can bear positive results. However, there are very few products out there that actually whiten the teeth without causing side effects. A good teeth whitening product should be mildly abrasive. It should also effectively work on the surface of the teeth to eliminate the stain build-up.
Some people may suffer from tooth sensitivity after using over-the-counter whitening kits, gels and toothpastes. In some instances, the products can also cause irritation to the gums and soft tissues of the mouth. What's more, these kits comprise of standard-sized trays which may not fit every individual's dental formula, and this could affect the results of the procedure.
Professional teeth whitening
Since there is so much information out there on teeth whitening, the only way you can be sure that you are doing it right is by visiting a dentist. Your dentist will recommend the most effective bleaching technique based on the condition of the teeth and the extent of staining. Professional bleaching procedures can be divided into two: in-office bleaching and home bleaching.
- In-office bleaching: The dentist undertakes the bleaching procedure in the clinic. You may only require one or two appointments for this.
- Home bleaching: A customised bleaching tray with the whitening gel is made and fitted on your teeth. You are required to use this for a few days.
Candidature for teeth whitening
Aside from using approved bleaching products and techniques, a dentist will ensure that you are a candidate for teeth whitening before going through with the procedure. For instance, patients with dental restorations may require a specific bleaching technique that will not have negative effects on the dental restorations. Also, individuals suffering from dental caries may require orthodontic treatment before bleaching. Carrying out DIY bleaching without this knowledge can cause irreversible damage to your dental restorations or deteriorate your dental health.
Information is power, and getting the right information on teeth whitening is the first step to achieving optimal results. Visit your dentist to assess your suitability for teeth whitening and cosmetic dentistry to achieve beautiful white teeth.
Share
Ever since I was a little girl, I have loved stories about the past. Whether the stories were about horses, wars, exploration or even dentistry, I loved to hear them. I find that knowing the history of something helps it to make sense and feel approachable. I know that some people have dental anxiety, and I too have suffered, but I also feel like the more you know about dental work and its history, the easier it is. This blog is dedicated to exploring the history of dentistry – What did ancient people use for fillings? How did early dentists numb their patients? Who was the first dentist? Those are just some of the questions I plan to answer here. Ready? Okay, let's dive into the history of dentistry together!