Teeth whitening: 2013

All The Right Answers For Your Teeth

Teeth are something that can always have some problem or the other. Since they are exposed to so many different chemicals and so much organic matter in the form of junk food, fruits, vegetables, beverages and other food stuff, they need to be carefully maintained to ensure that nothing goes wrong. Sometimes people have issues like yellowing of teeth over time. Then there are other problems, like teeth growing out of proportion, misaligned teeth and sometimes even infected teeth, which are very painful and involve a delicate operation to remedy it. Then of course, teeth tend to lose their strength slowly as people grow old, and there are solutions for this too.

The first thing that people do when they have any problems with their teeth, is go to a dentist. Of late, there are a number of dentists who are using all the knowledge that they have gathered from their different fields of study, and putting it to use to make sure that the treatment procedures that they implement are as easy on the teeth as possible. Although they are not recognized as any different from normal dentists by any regulatory authority or dental board, they have different approaches to their treatment as compared to other regular dentists. They have come to be known as cosmetic dentists.

A simple way of understanding how these dentists work is by taking the case of misaligned teeth. Usually when teeth grow out of alignment, the solution that is prescribed by a regular dentist is to wear teeth braces. There is no doubt that this is effective, but with all those metal brackets and wires, a lot of discomfiture is caused to the wearer. People tend to become quite self-conscious while wearing them. Cosmetic dentists have come up with a clear set of plastic aligners, that will be fixed to the teeth. Since they are nearly transparent, they will not be half as conspicuous as the traditional braces. These aligners are called Invisalign in the market.

Then there are whitening solutions. There are so many different things that can cause yellow teeth, like smoking, drinking teat, coffee, dark sodas and eating food with too much color in it. Cosmetic dentists offer great whitening solutions. All you need to do is get your teeth whitened once, in a procedure that lasts for not more than an hour. If you follow the post-service maintenance instructions properly, you won't need to go back to the dentists for whitening again! It is a one time solution.

As people begin to age, their teeth begin to get loose. The traditional solution for this has always been to wear dentures. Though these are good, there is also a disadvantage in that it is sometimes difficult to swallow when you wear them. Cosmetic dentists use something called a dental implant, which involves attaching bone friendly material to the end of the malfunctioning teeth in order to restore functionality to them. Since each tooth is treated separately without any dependence on other teeth (unlike the bridgework involved in dentures), it is good for teeth in the long run. What is more, the implant will fuse with the tooth over time.

There are so many other solutions provided by cosmetic dentists like veneers, root canal treatment and dental fillings.

All The Best Answers For Your Teeth

It is a well known fact that teeth are very difficult to maintain. Apart from regular people, even popular celebrities and models are always very wary of their teeth. This is simply because there are so many different things that can go wrong with teeth at any given point of time. For instance, it could be something like yellowing of teeth and formation of plaque, or it could be a serious issue like misalignment of teeth. There are also cases where the pulp gets infected, in which case an operation needs to be performed. Usually, for any issues related to the teeth the natural thing to do is to go to a dentist.

These days, there are some dentists who are using all the knowledge they have gained from wide study to create dental solutions that are as inconspicuous as possible. They are not acknowledged by any dental regulatory boards as being different from regular dentists. Be that as it may, these dentists use different methods to treat teeth issues, and they have come to be known as cosmetic dentists.

Take the example of misalignment of teeth. Traditional dentists use teeth braces in order to cure this. Although braces are definitely effective, they can induce a lot of diffidence, owing to all those steel wires and brackets. Cosmetic dentists, however, use a set of clear aligners that are made of plastic. These aligners are known as Invisalign. Since they are almost transparent, they are nearly invisible and so they are much less conspicuous than regular braces. And they are just as effective!

Then there is whitening of teeth. Owing to a multitude of reasons like drinking dark sodas, tea, coffee, eating colored foods and smoking, teeth can become yellow over a period of time. There are different solutions for yellowing teeth. One is to get your teeth bleached in the clinic itself. If you are not comfortable with this, you can opt for a bleaching process in the comfort of your home, as long as it is supervised by a dentist.

Then there are veneers. A veneer is a small cap that is made of porcelain, and is placed around the teeth. The porcelain imparts a distinct sheen to your teeth, so you will have the confidence back in your smile in no time.

Sometimes, the pulp of a person's tooth can be infected. This will lead to a lot of pain and an inability to chew. In such cases, an operation called root canal is performed. This involves the removal of the pulp from the hollow of the root (which is known as the root canal, from which the operation get its name) and then cleaning of the infected area. After this, the hollow is filled with some other material so that the tooth is functional again.

Sometimes with age, teeth can become weak. In such a case, cosmetic dentists use dental implants in order to bring the teeth back to functionality. This is better than dentures because with the latter, it is difficult to chew. Besides, dental implants use material that is friendly to the bone, so these implants fuse with the teeth over time.

Apples - Good For Your Teeth?

Everyone has heard the adage that "an apple away keeps the doctor away." What many don't realize is that an apple a day might also keep the dentist away.

Apples are an exceptionally beneficial food for people to eat. They are sweet which makes them not hard to eat and there are enough varieties available that people can find one that fits the size of apple they're looking for. In addition, they contain a variety of vitamins and nutrients that people need to be healthy.

In addition to their basic health benefits, they have numerous dental benefits. Apples are a mildly acidic fruit. Because of their slightly astringent quality, they are an ideal food for cleansing and brightening teeth. The acidic nature of an apple is not enough to make a person's teeth pearly white. The acid needs the help of the fiber-rich flesh of the apple.

Crunchy foods, including apples, celery, and carrots, act like mini toothbrushes when they are chewed. The crunchy bits actually help scrub away stubborn stains. This does not happen in a day but will take a while. The cleansing effect may be noticeable, even if it's very slight, particularly if the apple eater is a coffee drinker who hadn't been eating apples every day to begin with.

Eating an apple a day as a between meal snack is also an excellent way to stave off hunger. The large amount of fiber in an apple takes a long time to digest so a person feels full longer. This, in turn, leads to less snacking in general which can have a benefit for a person's waist line. Also, not snacking reduces the amount of sugars found on the teeth.

After eating an apple, it's still important to brush your teeth. The apples still have sugar and acid in them which can damage the teeth. Leaving the sugar and acid on the teeth will reverse the benefits that eating an apple gave the teeth. Also, it's a good idea to brush away the loosened plaque from the teeth so that it cannot become reattached to the teeth. If a tooth brush is not available after an apple, rinsing the apple down with some water may be the next best thing.

So in addition to providing numerous health benefits to the body, apples provide dental benefits. If you would like more information on apples and other foods that are very good for teeth

All Your Teeth Need

No matter what happens, teeth are something that need to be taken care of; they are a vital part of one's body. The problem is, teeth are prone to a number of problems. Not only for normal people, even celebrities who have access to the best care in the world are always wary of their teeth. Whether in terms of beauty or just for health, teeth need to be taken care of.

There are, however, a number of things that can go wrong with a person's teeth. It could be something like yellowing of teeth, or plaque. Otherwise, it could be that the teeth have grown out of alignment, or the pulp of a particular tooth may be infected. No matter what the ailment, the person to visit is a dentist.

These days, there are dentists who are using their widely gained knowledge in order to provide treatment that preserves the natural look of the teeth as much as possible. They are known as cosmetic dentists, but they are not recognized by any dental regulatory body as being different from regular dentists. That being said, they do have a different approach to dentistry.

Take the example of teeth that have grown out of alignment. Regular dentists will ask the patient to wear teeth braces. There can be no doubt about how effective they are, but the steel wires and brackets cause a lot of discomfort, not to mention diffidence to the wearer. Cosmetic dentists instead have devised a set of plastic aligners, known as Invisalign. These clear aligners are as effective as braces, and they are much less conspicuous!

Then there are yellow teeth. Owing to smoking, drinking tea, coffee, dark sodas and a multitude of other reasons, teeth become yellow over a period of time. This can be cured quite easily by a bleaching process, carried out by a cosmetic dentist. There is one process that you can get done in the dentist's clinic itself. If you are discomfited by that for any reason, you can get a bleaching done in the comfort of your home, but with supervision.

Sometimes, because of too much sugar in your diet, your tooth can get infected. This leads to the pulp becoming useless, and it leads to a lot of pain. In such cases, a surgery known as root canal needs to be performed, which involves removing the sensitive pulp from the root canal (a hollow portion within the root of your tooth, where the pulp is), and then cleaning the infected area. After this, the hollow portion is sealed with a filling to restore functionality to the tooth.

Sometimes with age, teeth get weak because of weakening gums. In such cases, traditional dentists prescribe dentures. The problem with dentures is that chewing is a little difficult. Cosmetic dentists instead use dental implants, which will be attached to the gums and will function like a natural tooth is supposed to. Besides, implants are made of material that is friendly to the bone, and so it will fuse with the teeth over time.

Everything You May Need For Your Teeth

All of us have some issues or the other with our teeth. It is not just us, even celebrities and models who are in vogue find the need to constantly maintain their teeth to keep them in good shape. The problem is that so many issues arise when it comes to our teeth. First of all there is the process of yellowing, and formation of plaque. Then there are more serious issues like the misalignment of teeth and loosening of teeth with age. There are also infections of the root canal, which can be quite painful. For all tooth related problems, the natural thing to do would be to see a dentist.

These days, some dentists are branching out and applying all the medical knowledge they have gathered over their study period, creating alternate solutions to dental problems. These solutions are aimed at effecting changes while still preserving the natural look of the teeth as much as possible. Although they are not officially recognized by any dental authorities as being any different from normal dentists, they have come to be known as cosmetic dentists.

Take the example of misaligned teeth. Usually, dentists use teeth braces to push them back into place, but the disadvantage with that is that the steel brackets and wires cause a lot of diffidence. Cosmetic dentists have come up with a simple alternative. They use a set of clear plastic aligners that will press your teeth inward and back into alignment. Since the aligners are almost transparent, this solution is much less conspicuous than teeth braces, and as effective! This solution is called Invisalign in the market.

Then there is the perennial problem of yellowing of teeth. This happens due to too much tea, coffee, colored food, dark sodas, smoking or a multitude of other reasons. When you have yellow teeth, cosmetic dentists will be able to give you one of two solutions. The first is a bleaching procedure in the dentist's clinic itself. If you do not feel comfortable with this, there is another option, a dentist-supervised bleaching process that you can undergo in the comfort of your home.

Then there are veneers. A veneer is a small porcelain covering that is placed like a cap over your teeth. The porcelain adds sheen and polish to your teeth and will infuse confidence in your smile in no time.

Sometimes, the pulp of a person's tooth can be seriously infected. When this happens, a surgery known as root canal needs to be performed. The root canal is the small hollow portion within your tooth, and it is this hollow in which the pulp is located. The root canal procedure involves the removal of the pulp, cleaning of the infected area and then replacing the pulp with some new material.

As you grow old, your teeth grow with you. The traditional treatment for weak and loose teeth is the prescription of dentures, but cosmetic dentists use dental implants. The implants have the advantage of helping the patient to chew easily, something that is an improvement over conventional dentures. Also, the implant is made of bone friendly material, so it fuses with the teeth over time.

All The Best Answers For Your Teeth

wisdom teeth

At around the age of 17, wisdom teeth either erupt--or try to, or fail entirely to erupt--in the back of your mouth. Because of the lack of room in the jaw for the large, sharp wisdom teeth, the dental community often encourages them to be removed. But why should you? Do your teeth need all that space? Or is there more to it than that?

When wisdom teeth come into your mouth fully, and not crooked, they're usually harmless, and serve their purpose of being grinders. But it's often the case that a tooth will only erupt halfway, leaving the pierced gum area around it susceptible to food and bacteria which can leak down inside and cause infection--not to mention bad breath. These infections aren't small matters, although they do begin that way. If left untreated, they can cause trismus, the inability to fully open the mouth, and keep spreading until they reach as far as the neck.

Even if a tooth does come out correctly, it's far enough back in the mouth for it to be difficult to reach to clean with a toothbrush and impossible to floss without unhinging your jaw.

However, most wisdom tooth-related problems are caused by the tooth failing to emerge fully from the gum--these teeth, called 'impacted teeth', can tilt outwards abnormally, crowding the teeth around them and causing pain and irritation of the gums. Such crowding can create a slow-working domino effect, causing other teeth to become crooked. After that, they can only be returned to their original positions with braces.

Cysts can form around the impacted tooth, affecting the bones and expanding the jaw. If they grow large enough, they can fracture the jaw. Sometimes, although not often, cysts can harbor cancerous tumors.

There are many kinds of impaction--mesial, when the tooth is angled toward the front of the mouth; vertical, towards the bottom; horizontal, when a tooth is on its side; and distal, when it angles toward the back of the mouth. There's more: bony impaction is when the tooth hasn't even made it to the gum, but is still stuck behind in the jawbone. Soft tissue impaction describes when the tooth does make it through the bone, but fails to make the final jump through the gum tissue.

But why go through with having these teeth, which are signals that one has come-of-age in some cultures, removed now? Surgery certainly isn't something to which many of us look forward. Unless it's pressing--like, say, a brain transplant--we tend to put it off. But it's best to remove the cause before it becomes a problem, which is why, although the thought of removing these third molars isn't enticing, you should have them out before they can cause discomfort and infection in your mouth. Even if you do manage to avoid these effects for awhile, the bone surrounding the tooth becomes denser as you age, and once you pass forty the tooth becomes more difficult to remove. So what are you waiting for? A few days of pain can save you years of headache.

Find a Dependable Dentist to Care for Your Teeth

Do you have a dependable dentist to go to for all of your care and dental emergencies? If you are someone that tends to pass up their dental appointments, because you don't see the value or don't want to waste your time, then you need to realize that you are inadvertently putting yourself at an increased risk for dental problems later on down the road. No matter how well you care for your teeth and gums on your own, you need to realize that it takes the care of a trained professional to keep you from developing serious infections and losing your teeth.

Without the help of a dentist, you may run into some problems that can affect how well you are able to enjoy eating certain types of foods. You may have an infection that can cause sensitivities to hot and cold. You could develop pain, tenderness and even abscesses. Don't wait until you are suffering from the symptoms of an infection before you decide to get the treatment and care you have been neglecting. Take care of the problems before they start so you won't have anything to worry about later.

The dentist is one of the most important professionals you will ever meet. Not only are they responsible for the care and treatment of their patients' gums and teeth, they are also the one that is responsible for making sure that you retain as many teeth as possible. In this life, you only get two sets of teeth: your baby teeth and your adult teeth. At this point in your life, you will only be dealing with your adult teeth. These teeth have to last you for the rest of your life. That is a long time for you to make sure that your teeth remain structurally safe and strong.

One way you can improve the likelihood of going to the dentist is to make sure you go to one you feel completely comfortable about. This may involve you having to contact several different professionals and visiting their offices before you can make a decision as to where you should go. Go online and look up dental professionals that are in your area. Don't forget to ask your friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations as well.

No matter how busy you get, you should always make time to go and see your dentist. As long as you are willing to be seen and treated for your dental issues, and have regular checkups, there is nothing your dental care provider won't be able to do to keep your smile in tiptop shape. If you ever have any issues where you are not happy about the appearance or integrity of your teeth, you can always see a specialist to do something about them. The bottom line is your smile can take you places and open a lot of doors for you. You can gain respect and admiration for a good-looking smile as well.

The Benefits Of Braces For Your Teeth

Having perfectly straight, clean and white teeth is something that everyone wants to achieve. However, not everyone was born with naturally perfect teeth, which is why there are such procedures as teeth whitening, and braces. If you have crooked teeth, then you need to consider receiving the benefits of teeth braces has to offer. Straight teeth can really add an extra gleam to your smile and personality. Your smile is tremendously enhanced when your teeth are straighter and whiter, which explains why people spend a lot of time, money and effort in maintaining and fixing their teeth issues.

Orthodontic appliances are typically made out of metal wiring and can be often seen as unattractive and unpleasant looking. They can be removed or even be put in as brackets bonded onto your teeth. When you have braces, your teeth will slowly straighten over time, providing you with that elusive perfect smile. The only disadvantage of regular braces is the fact that they happen to be very painful for the first few weeks as well as being quite unsightly. This is why dentists have created new and improved invisible braces that will allow for you to achieve a perfect smile without having to suffer the look of unpleasant metal braces.

An attractive smile basically calls for an improved self-image. This is the main benefit of orthodontic treatment. Having optimum teeth health and a flawless smile is just as important as taking care of yourself on a physical level. Without treatment, your orthodontic problems could lead to many teeth problems. This is why most of the best dentists recommended braces and regular dental check-ups to ensure a healthy mouth and gums.

Benefits of having that Invisible Braces Offer

These new technology advanced braces have proven to aid many in looking and feeling better about themselves, by preventing physical problems that are associated with incorrectly aligned teeth. When you correct your smile with teeth braces, you may eliminate the chances of using dentures in the future.

Crooked and overlapping smiles are a lot harder to keep clean when they are really misaligned. However, with braces, you are able to straighten your teeth eliminating the chances of more cavities forming due to misaligned teeth.

These new braces also tend to solve teeth problems by straightening them without the harsh look of traditional braces. You will finally be able to access all four sides of a tooth whenever you floss and brush. These braces have shown to help with long term cavity prevention in reducing the risks of gum disease.

There are also more problems caused by having misaligned teeth and an improper bite. Unless you properly align your teeth with dental braces, you can suffer from headaches, teeth grinding and many other health issues related to an improper bite. Utilizing teeth braces will however correct any issues and banish the stress of further problems related to your teeth.

Teeth Discoloration and Teeth Whitening Solutions

According to tooth whitening Glasgow dentists, tooth whitening solutions are affordable and available to most Glasgow residents. However, only 15% of patients requiring a tooth whitening process every consider the various options available to them. This is mainly due to ignorance and misinformation. There are teeth whitening options available for all budgets and for all patient temperaments and the whitening process will always leave your teeth significantly whiter and brighter than before.

Types of Teeth Discoloration

There are two types of teeth discoloration. Extrinsic teeth stains are discoloration that are caused by external factors such as smoking, drinking and aging. The dirt or discoloration is on the teeth enamel. This means that the original tooth is okay and with removal of the dirt, the teeth should be back to normal. If the extrinsic stains are mild, you can remove them by simple dental processes such as brushing your teeth or prophylactic dental cleaning. On the other hand, if the strains are strong, you may require other more forceful treatments such as teeth bleaching. If not managed in good time, the extrinsic stains can get ingrained into your teeth and thereby forming a permanent stain.

Intrinsic teeth stains are stains that form from within your teeth. Such stains can be caused by teeth being exposed to tetracycline and other related minerals especially during teeth formation. Taking a lot of fluoride in your diet also causes intrinsic stains.

Major Causes of Teeth Discoloration

There are different causes of both extrinsic and intrinsic teeth discoloration.

Age of the Patient

As one grows older, their teeth get more discolored because of the regular food stains and due to wear and tear. This is a natural aging process. However, dentists advise that proper dental hygiene will maintain your teeth color for longer. When applying the whitening solutions, it may be harder for older people to whiten their teeth as compared to younger individuals. The stains for the elderly people have been more ingrained into the teeth making it harder to remove.

Genetic traits of Your Teeth

There are also genetic discoloration traits that become more profound with age. For example, thin teeth that are more translucent get discolored much easily and it may be harder to whiten such teeth.

Eating, Drinking and Smoking Habits

There are various foods that affect the color of your teeth when taken excessively. These include cola, wines especially red wine, carrots, coffee and other strong color foods and beverages. Certain foods such as fruits with a lot of citric acid may also cause discoloration. Smoking is also a major cause of teeth discoloration.

Cracked Teeth

If your teeth are cracked because of any trauma experience, the cracks can let in dirt which will discolor your teeth in the long run.

Teeth Whitening Solutions

There are several tooth whitening solutions available to anyone with discolored teeth. The solutions used depends on the extent of the stains and the preference of the dentist and the patient.

Peroxide Gel

One solution for tooth whitening is application on Peroxide Gel. The gel may be applied by a dentist or trained technical person. During the gel application, the teeth gum must be protected by a rubber dam. The gel is applied thrice in 20 minute intervals. If the stains persist, you may need to re-apply the process.

Take-Home Whitening Kits

Take home whitening kits produce significant results when used consistently over some time. This kit has a much more dilute gel of Peroxide that can be applied at home. It is applied using a custom-made bleaching trays similar to a sportsman mouth guard. The tray remains in your teeth for about an hour.

Over-the-counter Bleaching

Over the counter bleaching solutions are the cheapest treatment for whitening teeth. The gel is available in most chemists. It is applied using whitening stick-on strips or gel painting tools. The effect of teeth whitening is much slower with this process as compared to other solutions. It is best used for people with light extrinsic stains.

Simple Ways to Whiten Your Teeth Easily

Whiter teeth can really improve your appearance. You can confidently talk to anybody knowing that you are carrying a set of healthy, white teeth. There are numerous ways to whiten teeth and this article will discuss some of the useful yet easy ways on how to do that.

Looking back at old times, there are no available toothpastes with formulation of fluoride to whiten teeth. There are no whitening products that are being applied. But we can observe that people at early times also have white teeth. Here are some interesting things they do to keep their teeth healthy:

• Mashed strawberries or sage leaf were applied and massaged on teeth's surface.

• Toasts (usually burnt) are often applied on teeth. The mixture of ground burnt bits, some powder and flavored oil are used as toothpaste then.

• Food particles left in between tooth are often rinsed only by gargling water.

• Cotton soaked in baking soda and lemon juice mixture is wiped to the teeth.

• Baking soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide is the most expensive whitening product then.

Nowadays, there is an emergence of clinically approved teeth whitening products and processes. The procedures are claimed to be fast and effective but also quite expensive. Teeth whitening can be complicated in some ways and can have drastic effects not only to your gums and teeth but to your personality as well.

Before giving in to some advertisements and clinical measures which promise crystal clear smile, you might want to try some home based and personal ways to whiten your teeth. These processes are not only safe and very inexpensive; they can also be done easily.

• The rule of the thumb is to brush your teeth after every meal. Brushing will prevent the formation of plaque that sets stains. Many people think that once a day brushing is enough but this isn't true. Healthy gums and teeth will be maintained by brushing your teeth regularly.

• Use toothpastes that carry the seal of approval from the American Dental Association. It will be better to use whitening toothpastes.

• Worn out toothbrush is a no-no! How can you have clean white teeth, if your brush can't do the job? Your teeth will not be brushed thoroughly with bristles that are worn out so change your toothbrush every two months.

• Floss once a day because food strips that are left in between your teeth can also stain them.

• Visit your dentist and have your teeth cleaned at least once a year. Teeth cleaning done by professional dentist can help maintain the natural color of your teeth.

• Avoid drinking red wine and coffee because these can stain your teeth quickly. Smoking on the other hand, can turn the color of your teeth to yellow. Drink milk and lots of water instead.

• Eating fruits and vegetables is also beneficial for the teeth. Raw vegetables are not only healthy but can also clean your teeth; so have them for your snack. Strawberries are loaded with Vitamin C which has bleaching elements. You can also use lemon peel to whiten your teeth; just massaged it over the surface of your teeth and rinse thoroughly.

Taking care of your teeth begins with the foods you take in your body. Healthy food equals healthy body and alongside; healthy bones and teeth. White teeth can be achieved not only by undergoing clinical treatments. Inexpensive, natural ways are also effective. Just be patient and observe your teeth grow whiter everyday!

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What Can I Eat After Teeth Whitening?

One of the reason the teeth get darker is because the micro pores within the enamel absorb saliva which will darken the teeth over quite a long time period, in fact so slowly we should not really notice the change happening.

During and after teeth whitening the micro pores stay exposed for normally 48 hours and therefore the chance to staining is higher and care and common sense needs to occur.

Foods and drinks to be avoided (this is not an exhaustive list but one that gets you focussed)

Tea
Coffee
Blackcurrant
Red wine
Gravy
Pasta sauce
Curry or spicy sauces
Red meat
Green vegetables

The foods and drinks that can be consumed (Again not a complete list!)

Water
Milk
Bread
White fish
Potatos
Rice
Pasta (no sauces)
Chicken and Turkey

Also if you smoke then nicotine needs to avoided otherwise this will also re-stain the teeth!

Some of the more powerful teeth whitening systems like zoom whitening, laser whitening and power whitening then typically forty eight hours after the treatment you need to be careful and then after that you can proceed with normal everyday diets.

For the bleaching trays then the timings can be longer. This is because the whitening program will take around fourteen days and over this period of time the teeth slowly and gently whiten but because you typically need to wear the trays overnight every night then follow the white diet closely otherwise the teeth will re-stain. The teeth will remain porous for the whole time and therefore trying to stay away from the likes of tea and coffee for the whole duration is quite challenging but needs to done to get the best results from the bleaching trays.

Milder whitening kits like the trays or strips you will need to be careful for twelve to twenty four hours only as these are much milder way of whitening the teeth and the micro pores are not open for as long.

For many serial drinker of tea, coffee and red wine this might seem like a bit overkill but trust us the white diet after whitening is really important otherwise results will fade and your investment will have been reduced.

Having a nice smile is well worth the time and money so give it a go and once the teeth brighten you will look younger and more healthy as the teeth are a tell tale sign of aging.

All teeth whitening is no substitute for good dental health and therefore please make sure you speak to your dentist about whitening and ensure you keep your regular appointments with the dentist and hygienist to keep you smile not just white but healthy!

Homemade Teeth Whitening Warning!

It is now simple and easy to get whiter teeth. There are many different ways that you can choose from whether it be homemade teeth whitening or going to the dentist. There are advantages and disadvantages with each method however lets take a quick look at homemade teeth whitening. White teeth can give you many benefits including,

* More Confidence
* Envy From Friends
* New Opportunities Can Open Up To You

Homemade Teeth Whitening Recipes
There are 2 simple ways to make homemade tooth whitening remedies. The first is a Baking Soda and Hydrogen Peroxide teeth whitening solution. Mix together 1 teaspoon of baking soda with a couple of drops of hydrogen peroxide. Once this is done you will apply it like ordinary tooth paste.

The second method is by mixing together baking soda with salt. Take 3 teaspoons of baking soda and 1 teaspoon of salt and mix together. Again you will simple apply this to your teeth as you would ordinary toothpaste. These are the easiest methods there are.

Warning
Both baking soda and salt are mild abrasives. This means that although you can expect good results in the short term, they will also weaken the tooth enamel over the long term making your teeth prone to weakness and chipping. Also you must be careful with hydrogen peroxide and also carbamide peroxide teeth whitening. They are both bleaches and can give you chemical burns if not mixed or applied correctly. The main areas to watch out for are your hands and gums. If in doubt, seek professional help.

Other Home Teeth Whitening Remedies To Consider
You do have other options to get whiter teeth from home. The milder forms are in toothpaste and strips. There is now a wide choice of toothpaste that has small amounts of tooth whitening bleach in them to help you gradually change the color of your teeth over time. Whitening strips are also easily available on the Internet and have shown good results.

For stronger remedies you can pick up fitted retainers and buy the hydrogen peroxide already made up for you. You would just have to add it to the retainers and put them in your mouth for about 15 minutes. This is a popular choice and is still very cost effective. I would only try homemade solutions if you are confident that you know what you are doing.

The Main Benefits of Laser Teeth Whitening

Are you yearning to have that white, perfect, attention grabbing "Hollywood" smile? If you have discolored teeth, you no longer have to suffer in agony and spend your days feeling self-conscious about them. Apart from giving you a friendlier appearance when talking to people, a whiter smile also tends to draw attention away from facial wrinkles giving you a more youthful appearance.

With a wide array of teeth whitening techniques available, achieving this goal has never been easier. Laser teeth whitening is fast becoming the most popular teeth whitening technique in the world today. It is easy to see why more people and even dentists prefer laser whitening to other treatments.

I) Effectiveness

Since its introduction, laser tooth whitening has consistently been more effective than other methods of whitening teeth. Most teeth whitening agents are available at much lower costs and can be applied from the comfort of home. However, these agents only remove surface stains and their effects last for less than six months. On the other hand, laser teeth whitening procedure can only be performed in a dental clinic by certified professionals. The effects of this in office teeth whitening can last up to five years since it changes the teeth's intrinsic color.

II) Works faster

Laser whitening can achieve dramatic results in a single session. However, three or more thirty-minute sessions are needed for this treatment to achieve its full effect. Other products, whether dispensed by dentist or over the counter, can take several weeks before any observable change takes place in the color of your teeth. What's more, you have to apply them every day for several hours or even overnight for weeks on end.

III) Less damaging

Weakening or softening of the gum and teeth is one of the most unfortunate side effects of teeth bleaching agents. According t the American Dental Association, over the counter bleaching products are prone to misuse and since some are overly abrasive, often damage the teeth even when used properly. Because of this, no over-the- counter teeth whitening product carries the American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of acceptance. On the other hand, laser-whitening treatment does not pose any of these risks. It is the only method of whitening your teeth while keeping hem healthy.

Side effects

There are numerous other reasons for choosing laser whitening over bleaching agents. However, as with any other treatment, it is also important that you acquaint yourself with some of the potential side effects. Fortunately, no severe side effects have been noted so far from this procedure. Most people however, experience heightened sensitivity after undergoing this procedure so it would probably be wise to avoid taking hot or cold drinks a day after having your teeth whitened.

Whether you are at work or socializing with friends, you have a right to smile and laugh in a carefree manner. If you are serious about your teeth, then spending a little more money on them should not be a problem. Laser teeth whitening gives you the freedom to experience joy without having to worry about what other people think.

Things You Need To Be Aware of Before Undergoing Laser Teeth Whitening Services

As we age, our teeth becomes yellower or stained due to a wide range of reasons such as unhealthy lifestyle, genetics, antibiotics and certain foods. Nowadays, there are various ways to whiten discolored teeth. However, laser teeth whitening treatment is gaining recognition among people as it is fast, pain free, safe and effective. This type of teeth whitening therapy is undoubtedly one of the viable options and even people with sensitive teeth can make use of this treatment as it safe and pain free. Laser teeth whitening is usually performed in just 60 minutes and offers guaranteed results.

Visit the Dentist Before Undergoing Laser Whitening Treatment:

Visiting a cosmetic dentist before undergoing laser treatment is a good option as it helps you to discuss with the dentist about the effectiveness of laser treatment and how it is performed. This initial conversation might help you to get rid of your anxiety about laser treatment and might prepare you physically and mentally for the treatment.

Merits & Demerits of Laser Whitening Treatment:

Before undergoing laser treatment, you need to have a clear idea about its merits and demerits to avoid unnecessary regrets later.

Some Important Merits of Laser Treatment Are Listed Below:

-As peroxide solution receives powerful activating energy from the laser, it offers a very effective teeth whitening treatment.

-It offers a faster recovery than other whitening treatments. Usually, patients can resume their day-to-day works within a few hours.

-Laser treatment is performed in just 60 minutes.

-It offers a long lasting result.

Demerits:

-It is not applicable for everyone.

-People with sensitive teeth might get irritation and gum problems after undergoing laser treatment.

Who Can Make Use of Laser Treatment?

One of the major disadvantage of this whitening treatment is that everyone cannot make use of this treatment. People with sensitive gums, tooth decay and pronounced gag reflex should not use laser treatment as it will cause severe side effects.

Is Just One Dental Session Enough to Whiten Teeth?

Depending on the intensity of stain or discoloration, whitening treatment will be carried out. Usually, just one session is enough to get sparkling white teeth. However, some people might need to undergo treatment for more than one time.

After laser whitening treatment, you need to clean your teeth regularly to de-stain. Avoid red wine, tobacco, coffee and tea which can stain your teeth in time. Brush your teeth twice and use a quality whitening toothpaste. To get desired results, choose the best laser whitening treatment.

Teeth Whitening Procedures for That Sunny Smile

Very few people have brilliant white teeth and as you get older your teeth get discoloured and stained by food and drinks like tea, coffee, cola's, wine and even smoking. Poor dental hygiene, ageing, antibiotics and trauma are other causes of teeth discoloration. Having discoloured teeth makes you self-conscious and almost embarrassed to smile, therefore resulting in lower self-esteem. Aren't we all attracted to bright and white radiant smiles? That's what teeth whitening does - it builds up confidence. Discoloured teeth can easily be restored back to its original natural colour by opting for teeth whitening treatments. It involves simple, painless procedures that can be done in the dentist's office by using a bleaching gel alone, or together with a specially designed light. It can also be done in the comfort of your home, according to your dentist's instruction. Your dentist will advise the appropriate procedure for you following a thorough oral examination.

Chairside whitening system

The quickest and most effective way, especially for busy individuals, to whiten teeth is the in-office bleaching, which is also known as Zoom chairside whitening system. Your teeth and gums are covered with a mouth shield, leaving only the teeth exposed. Whitening gel is applied to your teeth by your dentist, and combined with a specially designed light. The gel is activated by the light to penetrate the surface of the teeth and lighten stains and discoloration. Within 45 to 60-minutes your teeth are visibly whiter. All you need to do thereafter is follow simple post-whitening care like brushing twice daily, flossing and if required occasional touch-ups with white gel syringes.

DIY Teeth Whitening Kit

An alternate procedure your dentist may recommend is one which you can carry out at home. Your dentist takes the impression of your teeth, which is then sent to a lab to make bleaching trays. These bleaching trays are moulded to fit your teeth structure and are then filled with the teeth whitening gel. You can then wear the tray in the convenience of your home for around 40-minutes. Bleaching kits are safe for your teeth and gums, and are an effective way of teeth whitening.

Several years of staining and discolouration can be wiped out by simple and quick solutions that your dentist can recommend. You no longer need to regret about the cups of coffee, tea, or other staining food that you have ingested over the past years, all you need to do is to book an appointment with your dentist.

Choosing the Right Teeth Whitening Procedure for You

Before you go in for a teeth-whitening procedure, you should know which type of teeth whitening procedure is appropriate for you: bleach based (non-vital whitening) or non-bleach based (vital whitening). The type of teeth whitening procedure you'll undergo depends on your dental history.

Non-Vital Whitening (Bleach Based Whitening)

If you have had dental work done on your teeth such as a root canal, non-vital teeth whitening is recommended for you. This particular teeth whitening procedure is best because some of your teeth may only become whitened through a stronger and more involved teeth whitening procedure such as bleach based whitening. In this procedure, your dentist will fill the inside of your teeth with a chemical that will gradually whiten your teeth. In some cases, results appear within a day or two.

Vital Whitening (Non-Bleach Based Whitening)

This type of teeth whitening procedure is the one you usually see in popular literature and various advertisements. In this type of teeth whitening procedure, a chemical gel is placed inside a mouthpiece that you have to wear for a fixed amount of time. You may be required to wear the mouthpiece for only an hour or two or you may be required to wear it overnight.

If you'd like to have your teeth whitened but you don't want to go to the dentist because you are on a limited budget, you are too busy or you simply dislike going to the dentist, your only option is vital whitening or non-bleach based whitening. If you have had any kind of dental history, you need to seek professional advice for options that are available for you. However, if you have had dental work done on your teeth, having whiter teeth is only a quick visit away to the nearest grocery or drugstore.

Trends and Techniques in Teeth Whitening

Nobody wants yellowish or brownish teeth. If you see these nasty stains on your teeth, then you're a candidate for teeth whitening. There are many teeth whitening trends and techniques available these days that will help bring back that pearly white smile. But the question is, which product or procedure should you go for?

In order to choose the best teeth whitening method for you, you should first understand the different options available. The different trends and techniques in tooth whitening today are basically divided into two groups - in-office and do-it-yourself teeth whitening.

In-Office Teeth Whitening Procedures

The in-office whitening procedures are conducted by a cosmetic dentist and have proven to be fast and effective for whitening teeth. There are many different ways on how a dentist can whiten your teeth and give you back that pearly white smile. The most popular of these in-office procedures are:

Porcelain Veneer - If you have gaps between your teeth or a chipped tooth, then your cosmetic dentist would most likely suggest coating them with a porcelain veneer. This material works as a shell around the teeth for concealing chips and the unsightly stains for a whiter smile.

Internal Bleaching - This procedure is done by drilling the teeth then filling the hole with a special whitening gel. The specially formulated gel is left to sit for a week within the teeth then replaced with a permanent filling. Dentists strictly recommend internal bleaching only to patients who have desensitized or surgically removed nerve endings in the teeth.

Laser Teeth Whitening - This is the most popular among the various whitening procedures done by a dentist. The dentist starts by coating your teeth with a hydrogen peroxide (h202) solution then exposing them to a mercury halide pulse light to break down the h202 in the gel. This effect works by oxidizing the stains from your teeth and give it a whiter glow.

DIY Teeth Whitening Procedures

The professional tooth whitening procedures mentioned above are known to be pricey. A visit to the dentist for a teeth whitening treatment may easily cost you $400 and up. If you aren't ready to spend that amount of money to have your teeth whitened, then DIY whitening treatment is an available alternative.

There are many whitening toothpastes and DIY whitening kits out in the market these days. However, dental professionals warn that do-it-yourself treatments should be done with great care. These treatments usually take a couple of weeks before the whitening of your teeth gets evident.

Whitening toothpaste is simply done by brushing your teeth with it. This should be consistent in order to get the desired effect, which usually takes about a month or two. DIY whitening kits on the other hand comes with a tooth mold and gel. The mold is filled with the whitening gel and worn on the teeth for about 30 minutes or one hour. Basically, you will be required to do this for about two to three weeks to achieve the whiteness that you want.

Everyone desires a bright white set of teeth and it's fortunate that there are many trends and techniques available that makes it possible. But the thought of white teeth is truly an exciting prospect, you should always be careful and consult your dentist before giving it a go.

Teeth Whitening - Understanding the Pros and the Cons

Dental professionals have several types of whitening methods they use. All of which are rather expensive. Insurance companies seem to believe that if we don't like our teeth the way they are, we can just opt for dentures or sip our meals from a straw. Insurance companies consider getting your teeth whitened, and many of other dental procedures, to be cosmetic and therefore, most will not cover the expense involved.

The methods in use by dentists are not very convenient to the patient either. Most of the procedures are elaborate and must be repeated often to get the desired effect.

BLEACHING AS A POPULAR METHOD

Bleaching the teeth is one popular method used in the dental office. A tooth whitening solution is applied which is high in bleaching agent concentration. The teeth whitening agent includes a hypochlorite, an organic peroxide, an inorganic peroxide, a hydro-peroxide, hydrogen peroxide, a peracid, carbamide peroxide, or combinations thereof.

The whitening solution may be applied either by painting it on, much like applying nail polish to your finger nails, or by using a tray containing the solution placed over the teeth. The tray must be custom-fitted to the natural formation of the teeth.

These procedures are rather invasive and according to law in the United States and other countries, can only be done in a dental office by qualified professionals. They are not suitable for self-application even if it were not the law. It is important to note that the strength of these chemicals is much stronger than similar over-the-counter whitening products designated for home use.

These processes are uncomfortable to the patient and can be quite costly. Another caveat to the patient using the tray procedure: there is a substantial possibility of over-whitening of the teeth, causing a blue glow around the teeth and there will be most certainly, harsh tooth sensitivity. This is mainly due to the whitening agent being difficult to precisely control. Some procedures in the dentist's office use lasers or lights to compound the effectiveness of the bleaching agent. It usually takes about an hour and a half to complete the procedure and can take up to three hours. The bleaching session takes about 20 minutes, divided into three sessions. This means the teeth are subjected to the bleaching agent for at least an hour overall. The active ingredients in the solution, designed to break down and enter the inside of the enamel, makes the tooth lighter in color.

Patients are then sent home with instructions on how to "freshen up" the whitening with a tray-based whitening agent or an additional whitening method to be self-applied.

Some laser bleaching procedures done by a dental professional can last up to 3 years, and are quite costly. They also require sitting in the dentist's chair for a rather long time. Come prepared to stay!

TEETH WHITENING AT HOME

We know that we absolutely must practice good dental hygiene by brushing our teeth after every meal with a good toothbrush to remove food particles, plaque, and stains. Dentists recommend, and it is a good practice, to change our toothbrushes every 2 to 3 months or even sooner.

This is especially true when we consider that most of us throw our toothbrush into a glass near the bathroom sink, or worse, into a drawer with no conception of the germs that are bound to take up residence on its bristles. Of course, we typically use toothpaste, which in early years consisted of a surfactant to spread the liquid out, rather than collect in droplets and this early toothpaste also consisted of an abrasive substance. Today, there is commercial toothpaste designed to carry out any task you would ever think of needing for good oral hygiene, and just as often fails to deliver on the promise. Most of us merely find a toothpaste that we like, know and trust and we stick with that.

Today's toothpastes contain many active ingredients such as fluoride, tartar control agents and peroxide to provide further dental hygiene. As interest in teeth whitening has increased, several versions of toothpaste with tooth whitening properties have come on the market. Even though a toothpaste may contain a tooth whitening agent, it's difficult to achieve a desirable whitening effect in a short period of time by only brushing your teeth for 1 to 3 minutes (perhaps I'm being overly generous to think anyone will brush for that length of time) each time you brush.

Most toothpastes contain some whitening ingredients, virtually the same as used in the dental office; common baking soda and hydrogen peroxide are two main ingredients. Of course, the strengths of these ingredients are far less than those in use by your dental professional. As we know, hydrogen peroxide in higher levels can cause severe sensitivity of the teeth and gums.

Some people will want to use do-it-yourself methods to whiten their teeth and there are plenty of products on the market from major companies.

Teeth whitening has become big business and entire supermarket and big-box discount store aisles are overtaken over by these products, each we're told, better than the next.

These products usually provide a kit including a generic appliance and a container of bleaching gel. They are far less expensive than in-office dental procedures to whiten teeth. There is, however a major disadvantage to this one size fits all generic appliance. It isn't fitted to each individual's teeth and this causes a loose fit around the teeth and gums and can cause the bleaching solution to harm the soft tissue. This also means the whitening will be less effective, and the consumer uses even more of the bleaching gel, trying to get the desired shade of whitening. A poor fit increases the likelihood of the bleaching gel to not only seep onto the gums, but it also means swallowing much of the solution. Another disadvantage is the requirement of cleaning and reusing the appliance. From personal experience, I can tell you it is also a lot of work.

Virtually all do-it-yourself teeth whitening products contain a plethora of chemicals, some of which could be harmful, causing some consumers to re-think whether they actually want to whiten their teeth using these methods.

A Closer Look at Laser Teeth Whitening and Its Benefits

Everyone wants to have an attractive, pearly white smile. However, your teeth can lose its luster over time due to a number of different factors. If you visit your dentist once or twice a year, then you may have heard about the different products and services which are made to bring back that dazzling white smile. Some of these require regular use or daily intervals, which can extend up to weeks or even months. But if you're seeking a solution that is safe, fast, and effective, then laser teeth whitening may just be for you.

Laser Whitening Procedure

Many people think that laser teeth whitening is a painful and complicated procedure, but it's actually straightforward and painless. The dentist will be applying a specially formulated whitening gel over your teeth and remove the dingy stains with a laser light. The laser lights allow the gel to penetrate the hard enamel easier, and the results can be seen in as little as one session. What's even better is that it offers a number of great benefits over the other options, such as:

Approved Safe by the ADA

Safety comes first in any cosmetic improvement procedure. The American Dental Association cautions that while laser teeth whitening done by a professional is safe for enamel and dental work, do-it-yourself bleaching kits are much riskier as the work is left solely to the consumer. The teeth and gum line can be weakened by bleaching, as these are known to be abrasive and can cause dental damages with prolonged use. The ADA strongly disagrees about the use of over-the-counter bleaching agents as these products don't meet their standards of safety and effectiveness, unlike the specially formulated whitening gels that bear their Seal of Acceptance. Neutralizing gels and rubber shields are also other ADA-approved materials used to protect the teeth and gum sensitivity during a laser teeth whitening procedure.

More Effective than Other Procedures

As of present, laser teeth whitening is the most effective way of bringing back that pearly white smile. The bleaching agents found in DIY bleaching products are more abrasive yet less effective compared to the whitening agents applied by dental professionals. The University of Maryland Medical Center has reported that the effects of professional laser whitening can last up to 5 years or more, while the over-the-counter products usually last from 6 months to a year only. This process also works to improve the intrinsic color of your teeth, unlike a whitening toothpaste which only gets rid of surface stains.

Dramatic Results in the Shortest Time

According to the Cleveland Clinic, laser teeth whitening can give you dramatic results in just a single session. Of course, it will take several sessions to get the full effect that you desire, but with each session lasting as little as 30 minutes only, there's no need to settle with the riskier, over-the-counter teeth whiteners that take hours to apply and weeks to bring little results.

What About Side-Effects?

Some people claim that they experience sensitivity to hot or cold drinks after undergoing laser teeth whitening. While dental professionals consider this to be a normal occurrence, the degree of sensitivity varies from person to person.

In order to avoid this side-effect, the best course of action is to look for a trusted and highly experienced dentist. You may seek the recommendations of your friends or colleagues who recently had a laser teeth whitening and take the time to determine the dentist's expertise to get that dazzling white smile that you've always wanted!