Tooth enamel may darken due to an influence of many factors. These are difficult to avoid in the modern world. Tooth color may be affected due to:
* Consumption of staining foods and drinks, chocolate, some fruit, coffee, and black tea;
* Smoking;
* Various chronic or acquired diseases;
* Treatment with tetracycline; and/or
* Age-related changes of enamel.
Teeth Whitening in Birmingham is often recommended, especially after patients remove braces that have been intact for a long time. Those who want to pass on this procedure, it is worth knowing that the only other procedures that have the same effect are veneers and porcelain crowns. However, if you already have fillings, veneers or crowns, it is important that you get a shade closest to these items or your smile will look off.
Teeth whitening methods are divided into two main categories: home and professional.
Whitening toothpaste: These pastes are commercially available, and their costs range significantly. Dentists do not approve of using whitening toothpastes. Abrasive pastes scratch the tooth enamel and facilitate mineral withdrawal. This leads to tooth hypersensitivity and hard tissue abrasion.
Whitening trays: Special splints are worn with bleaching gel inserted inside them. Mouthguards can be bought over-the-counter, but they can also be made by the dentist. The latter option will significantly improve your smile moreso than OTC methods. Typically, the process of home whitening takes about two to three weeks. However, the first effects can be seen in five or six days, and the effect gradually increases.
Laser Whitening: This fairly new service is gentler on tooth enamel than chemicals. The procedure is painless and allows you to achieve a maximum effect. A special whitening gel is applied to the teeth and is activated by a laser. Before the procedure, a professional cleaning is recommended to remove all the plaque and tartar.
Having your teeth whitened is no small matter. You should always do plenty of homework before making a decision on who want to perform the procedure. There are various ranges of Teeth Whitening in Birmingham, but if you choose to go with an OTC method make sure you speak to a professional first to see if your oral health can handle it. For more information on whitening, contact Anglin & Nelson Dental today.
