Teeth Whitening: The Secret To A Dazzling Smile

Tooth whitening or a tooth bleaching is a process that involves removing stains or other discolorations from the tooth surface to make the tooth look white and dazzling. Researches have shown that whiter teeth make people more acceptable and popular in the work or social environment. A white and bright smile comes across as a friendly gesture and makes other people feel comfortable instantly. So this non-surgical, non-invasive method of cosmetic dentistry is becoming extremely popular all over the world lately.

The causes and the cure
Teeth may be stained due to various reasons like prolonged use of tea, coffee, cigarettes or even medications such as antibiotics like tetracycline. Even aging causes teeth to get discolored, along with fluorosis, a condition caused by absorbing too much fluoride. The various teeth whitening options include over the counter (OTC) products available in the market such as gels, strips, toothpastes, or going to a dentist for an in-office bleaching. In-house office bleaching or power bleaching involves applying hydrogen peroxide, a bleaching agent which changes the color of teeth. This bleaching agent is used to remove surface stains as well as deeper stains. The entire process may last anything from 30 minutes to an hour and is said to be more effective than the other processes such as applying gels or strips that are available in the market. The effect of teeth whitening is not permanent; it may last from six months to a year, and in some cases slightly longer.

Things to remember
Services are easily sought online through specific areas search such as 'Thousand Oaks teeth whitening' which provides a wide range of options to choose from. However one must remember that tooth whitening is not advisable for everybody and an oral examination is recommended before you plan a treatment. It is advised that people suffering from gum diseases, receding gums, or sensitive teeth should not go in for teeth whitening. The dentist may also advise against the treatment if the tooth's enamel is worn out, since the exposed root canal cannot be whitened. Women who are either pregnant or is nursing a baby, are also not allowed to undergo any such treatment since levels of peroxide may be harmful for the child.

Side -effects
For those considering teeth whitening, there are a few downsides that they may want to know about. Teeth-whitening does not fall under dental insurance plans since it is treated under cosmetic treatment, and this in turn might prove to be quite expensive for you. As far as side-effects are concerned, teeth-whitening may cause sensitivity to hot and cold food and drinks. A few patients also suffer from gum irritation when undergoing the tray treatment.