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Teeth Whitening: What is best for you?

Teeth Whitening: What is best for you?
Posted on 01/31/2018
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At Show Your Grin Dental, your local dentist office in Olathe, KS, we specialize in cosmetic dentistry services, which includes teeth whitening. With so many options on the market today, it can get a little confusing: Which application treatment is best for me? How long does it last? We hope to share the right information about a very convenient and affordable cosmetic dental procedure.

So, before that smile gets brightened, read on to learn about what cosmetic dentistry is, the different types of whitening applications, pros and cons of at-home treatments versus professional treatments, and some possible side effects of teeth whitening.

According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, cosmetic dentistry is “dentistry aimed at creating a positive change to your teeth and your smile.” Additionally, they include any smile-enhancing procedures that “can range from a basic color correction to replacing missing teeth.”

Choosing to whiten your teeth can remove stains and restore confidence. Deciding between whitening toothpastes, whitening strips or gels, whitening rinses, tray-based whiteners, and in-office whitening will give you different results. As a general rule, over-the-counter treatments (pastes, strips, rinses, and trays) will be lower in cost, lower in strength and their results will be seen for the shortest length of time (i.e. the whiteness may fade in as short at a month).

On the other hand, in-office whitening treatments may cost a little more but have substantially longer whitening effects (up to one year) because cosmetic dentists use a more concentrated peroxide than anything over-the-counter option and use professional techniques including heat and special lights to increase stain removal.

Please keep in mind, the most common side effects of teeth whitening are increased tooth sensitivity and possibly mild tissue irritation, usually along the gum line. Though, these side effects often subside within hours. As with any medical procedure, please follow any directions on products and/or the instructions from your trained dental professional.

Determining what your desired treatment style is, balanced with a budget, and considering other information will help you decide what route is best for you. As always, the entire staff at Show Your Grin Dental is highly trained in cosmetic dentistry and is always available to help answer any questions you have about teeth whitening and dentistry in general.

Happy Smiling.