Whitening your teeth is a popular cosmetic dentistry procedure that can help you achieve a brighter smile. Many people have discolored teeth, whether it’s from stains caused by coffee, tea, red wine or other foods and drinks. Fortunately, there are a number of different treatments to choose from.
There are a number of methods for teeth whitening Pittsburgh PA and each method has its own mechanism of action. It is important to consult your dentist when choosing the right teeth whitening product for you.
You should avoid consuming foods and drinks that are known to stain your teeth. These include coffee, tea, red wine, curry and other acidic drinks.
Brushing your teeth with a whitening toothpaste that has earned the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance for stain removal is also an effective way to keep your teeth bright. These ADA-approved toothpastes have mild abrasives that gently scrub your teeth to remove surface stains.
Some people may choose to whiten their teeth through a bleaching process at the dentist’s office. This treatment involves using trays that are custom made to fit your teeth. The dentist fills the trays with bleaching gel and you wear them for about 15 to 30 minutes. The dentist may shine a light on your teeth to help speed up the whitening process.
The bleach works by soaking into the tooth’s enamel top layer and working its way into the dentine, the main part of the tooth that is slightly softer than the enamel. Once the bleach has reached this layer, it is able to break down coloured molecules that cause stains on your teeth.
Your teeth will start to look whiter within a few days after you apply the product, although it may take a couple of weeks for your teeth to become truly white. The results will last for several months, but re-treatments are recommended if you consume food and beverages that can stain your teeth, such as coffee, soda, and red wines.
If you have dental veneers, crowns, or bridges, whitening will not affect them. In addition, the treatment is not recommended if you have a history of gum disease or have lost a significant amount of enamel on your natural teeth.
Tooth whitening is a relatively simple and safe treatment. However, it is important to note that some patients may experience sensitivity to the whitening agent or gum irritation after the treatment. This is because whitening agents readily permeate the dental hard tissues and can result in temporary tooth sensitivity and gingival inflammation.
Despite these risks, the positive effects of teeth whitening Pittsburgh PA can have a dramatic impact on your self-esteem and confidence. Having whiter teeth can make you more likely to smile or speak openly in public and will make you feel good about yourself.
Some studies have shown that people with whiter teeth are more likely to be hired for jobs. Another study found that people with nice teeth were more friendly, trustworthy and happy.