A white smile has always been important, but it seems like it’s getting more important every day. Even though most of us spend more time on the computer these days, because of the very social nature of the Internet, having a bright, white smile has become one of the most vital assets we have today. But what do you do if your teeth are dull, yellowed, or even brown? Well, you probably don’t smile nearly as much as you’d like and that’s just not acceptable, especially since dental office whitening procedures are more affordable than ever. But that’s not all. Today, there are so many effective tooth-whitening methods available to patients throughout the country that happen right in the chair of your family dentist, and that means you know you can trust their safety and results. Following is more information on the most popular and effective dental office tooth whitening procedures available.
Dental office tooth whitening
Most patients choose in-office tooth whitening procedures because they achieve better and more long-lasting results than over-the-counter tooth whitening products. Dental office tooth whiteners are more potent than DIY gels and other solutions that can be bought at grocery and drug stores. But, even though they’re more potent and produce better results, dental office tooth whitening procedures are safe because they’re performed by dentists. Though do-it-yourself, over-the-counter tooth whitening products may seem like a great deal, the cost between these products and dental office tooth whitening procedures is often quite comparable. Over-the-counter whiteners typically must be repeated within just a few months of using them. However, dental office whitening procedures often last years, and some are considered permanent. When you compare spending $20 or $30 every couple or few months repeatedly for years with the average dental office whitening procedure, which typically is about $400 to $600, the cost often is nearly equal. The results, however, are not equal, as in-office whiteners are far more effective.
In office tooth whitening
There are several dental office teeth whitening procedures offered today by top dentists. The most popular of these include deep bleaching systems and gel-and-laser systems.
Deep Bleaching
Deep bleaching systems are highly effective whiteners because they use trays that are specifically molded to a patient’s mouth. The deep bleaching procedure is safe and comfortable. Patients often opt for this method because they like the idea that they can take the trays with them to use in the convenience of their own homes, where they are instructed to sleep in the trays that are surprisingly comfortable. Deep bleaching systems typically require just a couple weeks in order to achieve optimal results. Another reason patients like this system is because it doesn’t require them to wear gooey strips at often inopportune times of the day.
Gel and laser
Gel-and-laser dental office whitening systems are extremely effective as their results are dramatic, typically taking just one session with a top dentist. This system uses a powerful but safe gel solution that is activated by a laser, making it even more effective than some other in-office whitening procedures. In fact, according to a study published in the Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), ‘peroxide and light treatment significantly lightened the color of teeth to a greater extent than did peroxide or light alone.’ The study also concluded that the combination of gels and lasers had a low incidence of tooth sensitivity. In addition, because this process typically lightens teeth by several shades in just a single session, patients who use it don’t have the inconvenience or cost of returning to the dentist for multiple appointments.
Caring for your new white smile
Just like before your dental office whitening procedure, you need to follow a regular dental hygiene routine that includes twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste and at least once-daily flossing. Additionally, it’s a good idea to get into the habit of rinsing daily with antiseptic mouthwash to keep bacteria from building up. Finally, it’s vital that you visit your Millburn family dentist twice at year to keep your new white smile and your gums in optimal health.
You can’t get by these days about without a bright, radiant smile, it’s true. As the global community gets smaller, your chances of seeing and being seen get greater, and that means that presenting the best you possible is more important than ever. The good news about all this is that a vibrant, lovely smile probably is the most easily attained asset you can come by. In fact, it’s only as far as a top dentist in Millburn.
