One of the most sought after procedures of cosmetic dentistry is teeth whitening. Also known as teeth bleaching, this process aims to solve teeth discoloration. A teeth whitener is made to do away with the stains and discoloration on the enamel of the teeth. With this craze, many dental clinics now offer different methods relating to the process of whitening your teeth and bringing back your bright smile.
However, if you think going to a professional’s clinic would be a hassle, there are also teeth bleaching kits you can purchase over the counter. These kits provide you the convenience of doing the process by yourself, at home. Depending on the type of teeth whitening application, you may it even when working. Teeth whitening kits may be readily purchased online and in your local drugstore. Some types are mentioned below.
A popular teeth whitening tool is the whitening strip. This is made of a thin filament of plastic which is coated by a whitening gel or solution and placed over the teeth. It is gently pressed and smoothed into place and left for several minutes so the teeth may absorb the beaching agent. This method has its disadvantage for crooked teeth. Since you need to smooth out the filament over the contours of the teeth, the crevices on the crooked tooth will not be covered by the whitening strip. Some variants are made of transparent and very thin plastic which blends with the color of your teeth making it almost invisible. This is advantageous because you are able to use this even when at work.
Another over-the-counter whitening tool is the teeth bleaching tray. This tool may be bought readymade or may be requested to be customized from a dental laboratory. A specified amount of the bleaching solution is placed on the tray and it is fitted on the teeth like a plastic guard. This is left attached to the teeth for several hours and some even overnight.
Using a whitening toothpaste may be the most common home whitening system there is. Aside from being affordable, it is very easy to use. However, brushing your teeth with a whitening toothpaste is not as effective when compared to other leave-on teeth whitening kits. One reason for this is that the toothpaste is only left on the teeth for a very little amount of time. You will only see the difference after several months for regular use.