We don’t keep track of what questions are asked when and most often. But, if we did keep track of questions like that, we feel pretty confident that one of the most common questions we get goes something like this: How can I get my teeth whiter? Faster? And so it’ll last longer? And without any risks?
Let’s take a look at your most common options for whitening your teeth: You can do it yourself or you can ask your dentist to provide professional teeth whitening in Indian Land.
How your dentist can whiten your teeth
Professional teeth whitening by a dentist can be performed in two different ways: In the dentist’s office or at home using customized kits provided after a consultation with your dentist. Both options will use bleaching products containing carbamide peroxide or hydrogen peroxide to break down stains. Whitening by a dentist in Indian Land or using take-home trays containing bleaching products selected and formulated specifically for your teeth is an extremely safe procedure because it is based on a careful assessment of the health of your teeth and gums and the exact nature of the stains being targeted.
How you can whiten your teeth yourself
Do-it-yourself teeth whitening options include whitening mouthwashes and toothpaste, whitening chewing gums, and whitening strips. Products approved by the Canadian Dental Association (ask your dentist if you’re not sure!) are safe if used as directed. Keep in mind that there’s a trade-off to the safety of these DIY options: Time. Any whitening effect you’ll notice from DIY options will take much longer to develop and will have a much shorter lifespan than teeth whitening provided by a dentist in Indian land. That’s because the bleaching compounds used in DIY options are much weaker than the bleaching compounds your dentist will use.
The weaker compounds make them safer for use by amateurs, but slow down any whitening process so be patient. When people suffer any ill effects from using DIY teeth whitening options, it’s usually because they use them too often or for too long because they’re not patient enough. Always use the products according to their instructions. If you want more dramatic results, make an appointment with a dentist near you. Professional teeth whitening in the dentist’s office or at home using bleaching compounds in trays provided by your dentist may be a better alternative for you.
When choosing the best method, don’t ignore potential side effects
One of the biggest advantages of getting teeth whitening near you from a dentist rather than doing it yourself is that your dentist will be able to tailor the bleaching compounds precisely to your stains, the condition of your teeth, and any prior experience you’ve had — negative or otherwise. This is important because there are a couple of common, though minor and temporary, potential side effects of teeth whitening (especially if you use DIY options without following the instructions precisely).
Some people who have undergone teeth whitening notice increased tooth sensitivity, though that sensation is usually minor and disappears over several days. Your dentist may recommend that you use toothpaste containing sodium fluoride and potassium nitrate to help ease that sensitivity. If you know you have particularly sensitive teeth, let your dentist in Indian Land know before your whitening appointment. They’ll be able to adjust and perhaps provide some preventative tips, too.
Whatever your goals are when it comes to whiter and more beautiful teeth, you’ve got options. For the safest, most tailored, most effective, most dramatic, most comfortable and longest-lasting results, make an appointment with a dentist near you.