Have you even been upset with the colour of your teeth? Have you ever desired that your teeth were whiter and brighter? If yes, then bleaching is the solution for you.
Bleaching agents contains peroxide (hydrogen peroxide or carbamine peroxide). These products remove both the surface and the deep stains. When the teeth erupt they are white in colour but over the period of time they stain.
Various factors that can contribute to the staining of the teeth are consumption of caffeinated drinks, tobacco usage, poor oral hygiene etc. There can be some development defects that can cause staining of teeth. Aging is also a factor for natural yellowing of teeth.
There are two ways of bleaching you teeth
In office bleaching
This is done by a dentist. The solution used has a higher concentration of hydrogen peroxide and the desired results can be achieved in one visit. The procedure of bleaching can be enhanced by the help of light and heat in dental office. These systems may contain 15%-40% peroxide.
At home bleaching:
This can be done in following ways:
- Your dentist could make customised trays for you after taking an impression and then bleaching gel can be applied. The trays need to be worn for a few hours for approximately four weeks.
- Dental whitening pastes: These can be used for brushing every day. These pastes contain polishing and bleaching agents and can removes stains on a regular basis. The only problem is that these pastes could be abrasive and cause sensitivity.
- Tooth whitening strips and gels: These are available in the market. They need to be applied for sometime daily for a few days.
Bleaching is a temporary treatment and effects last for some period of time. The effects of in office bleach last longer than the home bleaching.
The bleaching effect can last for a longer period of time if:
- You avoid caffeinated drinks
- Avoid smoking
- Maintain good oral hygiene
Post bleaching complication
Bleaching can cause sensitivity for a few days that can be taken care of by de-sensitizing pastes.
