Teeth Whitening Gel

We have to clearly understand how teeth whitening works before we proceed to the types of teeth whitening methods and products available for us to choose from. Teeth whitening gel is an integral part of the teeth whitening process.

How does Teeth Whitening work?

Our daily lifestyle has an impact on our teeth. As we eat and drink the food and drink we consume like coffee, tea, wine, or soda, leave their mark on our teeth. Smokers are staining their teeth through the continued use of smoking. These stains will not go away with daily brushing. Although the stains are quite harmless they are definitely not attractive. Enter teeth whitening agents that bleach the teeth to remove the stains.

In-Office Teeth Whitening

In this method the dentist first begins by cleaning your teeth thoroughly. He then places some protective shields or guards in your mouth to prevent the bleaching agent from touching your gums. Next he uses a special light or laser to activate the bleaching agent. This is the hot method. Once activated it is allowed to remain on the teeth for about 30 minutes. This process is sometimes repeated over 2 or more sessions depending on the seriousness of the stains and discoloration.

The main advantage of doing this procedure in your dentist’s office is that the effects are usually immediate and faster. With the dentist doing the procedure all your teeth can be whitened in under an hour. You can choose how much lighter you want to make your teeth based on the shade charts the dentist will provide you with.

The disadvantages are that it is far more expensive and there are higher incidences of tooth sensitivity after the procedure due to more potent tooth whiteners used, especially when it is a single session procedure. However the tooth sensitivity is temporary.

At-Home Tooth Bleaching

This is a do it yourself kind of method. You can buy the teeth whitening kit ranging from gel kits prescribed and provided by the dentist to the ones available over-the-counter, like teeth whitening strips. The ones provided by the dentist will prove to be more effective.

The teeth whitening kit comes with gel and mouth trays. You have to fill the trays with the whitening gel which is peroxide based and apply to your teeth. You have to leave it on as per the instructions and then remove. This process has to be repeated over several days before you see any change in the color of your teeth.

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