What You Should Know About Teeth Whitening
If you want to brighten your smile, teeth whitening is a safe and effective treatment. However, you should be aware that it is not permanent and your teeth may stain again. To maintain your bright white smile, brushing and flossing twice daily is important along with using a whitening toothpaste and mouthwash, avoiding foods or liquids that can stain (such as red wine, coffee, and dark berries), and eating lots of fruits and vegetables and calcium-rich foods.
Teeth Whitening: What You Need to Know for a Brighter Smile
There are many whitening products available over the counter and some at dental offices. While they can help, you should be aware that these products are not regulated by the FDA and can lead to enamel damage if used improperly. These products are usually bleaching gels that are applied directly to the teeth. They are usually worn for a few hours or overnight and can be very effective in brightening the tooth color.
The whitening agent works by targeting the chromogens, which are natural or extrinsic discolorants of the teeth, such as food and beverage stains, smoking, and certain medications including tetracycline. The whitening agents work by breaking the bonds in these compounds and thus eliminating their ability to produce color. The whitening effect typically lasts from a few months to up to 3 years and varies from person to person. A touch-up may be needed every several years, especially for patients who smoke or consume deeply colored foods or beverages.