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Having a perfectly aligned bright smile leaves a lasting impression. It plays a keen role in your overall appearance and boosts confidence. Not having a bright smile is not an issue anymore. With the help of different teeth whitening procedures, you can make your teeth brighter and smile more often. Let us dig deep into the science behind teeth whitening and how it works.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening has become a popular cosmetic procedure for a brighter and more radiant smile. It is a process that helps with stain removal and discoloration from the tooth surface. It is a more common procedure in patients undergoing an orthodontic treatment; braces, or clear aligners. However, anyone can get their teeth whitened.
Understanding Tooth Discoloration
Teeth whitening procedures help to remove both extrinsic and intrinsic types of stains. To know how teeth whitening will work it is essential to understand which type of stains you want to address. Extrinsic stains are caused by external factors including different foods and beverages; tea, coffee, or soft drinks. Whereas, intrinsic stains could be due to genetics or age factor.
Role of Peroxide-Based Whiteners
The basic ingredient for teeth whitening is peroxide-based compounds; hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide. This peroxide helps by bleaching the teeth from the inside which aids in breaking down the molecule responsible for enamel stains. When peroxide-based whiteners are applied over the teeth, they release oxygen molecules that penetrate the enamel. As a result, the discolored molecules break down into smaller, less visible particles. And, make teeth brighter and whiter. Some teeth whitening procedures include LED lights or lasers that help incorporate peroxide breakdown and increase oxygen release.
Teeth Whitening Methods
Teeth whitening helps achieve a perfectly radiant smile that enhances overall appearance. You can get your teeth whitened through any of the following methods.
Teeth whitening at home
At-home teeth whitening includes a gel or a paste that is applied to your teeth with the help of a brush. At-home teeth whitening kits provided by dentists offer a more gradual whitening process, with custom-fitted trays and lower-concentration whitening gel.
Over-the-counter products
Different over-the-counter products include whitening toothpaste, trays, or strips. These products can be used at home for effective teeth whitening. The concentration of whitening agents in these over-the-counter products is lower than usual. However, these are still effective for mild to moderate stains.
Teeth whitening in a clinic
The most common way of getting your teeth whitened is by getting professional treatment administered by the dentist. In-office teeth whitening includes higher concentrations of whitening agents that guarantee bright results for a longer period.
To conclude, different methods of teeth whitening have been introduced to cater to the removal of stains. The peroxide whitening agents help break down the molecules responsible for enamel stains which results in whiter teeth.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the purpose of teeth whitening?
Teeth whitening is a process that helps remove stains and discoloration from any extrinsic or intrinsic factors.
2. Is it safe to get teeth whitening with clear aligners?
Teeth whitening with clear aligners is generally regarded as safe as aligners can be removed easily for whitening. However, it is preferred to consult your orthodontist first.
3. Can we do teeth whitening at home?
Yes, certain teeth whitening kits are available to achieve teeth whitening at home. Moreover, there are certain over-the-counter products including toothpaste, strips, and trays that help in teeth whitening.
