What You Need to Know About Tooth Whitening
With a variety of tooth whitening methods available, whitening your teeth has never been more accessible. Are you dreaming of a white smile? Before considering whitening your teeth, book an appointment for a check-up and cleaning with your dentist. Surface stains will need to be removed before whitening to achieve optimum results. Your dentist will then determine if you are a candidate for tooth whitening.
How Are Teeth Whitened?
Enamel, the first layer of tooth surface, is actually semi-translucent, or clear. The layer underneath the enamel, known as dentin, is typically yellow, but may be gray, brown or black. This hue is what is seen penetrating through the enamel. In order to whiten the dentin, a peroxide solution is placed on the enamel. This process opens the pores of the enamel, allowing the solution to reach the layer of dentin. The solution will then begin to lighten the dentin, resulting in the appearance of whiter teeth.
Several brands of tooth-whitening products are on the market that all promise one thing -- noticeable results. Professional in-office whitening, professional take-home whitening and over-the-counter whitening products remain the most common ways to whiten your teeth.
It is important to have realistic expectations when evaluating your final results; it may take several treatments to achieve a whiter smile. Whitening results may not be permanent, as your teeth will naturally pick up stain from foods or beverages or from tobacco use. Remember to brush and floss daily, and visit your dentist for regular cleanings and examinations. Tooth whitening results will vary from person to person, so chose an option that will suit your specific need and budget.
Above article from Dentistry.About.com
200 East Bridge St., Suite 100
Wausau, WI 54403
(715) 843-9800 2812 East Main St.
Our other convenient locations:
Merrill, WI 54452
3417 Schofield Avenue
Schofield, WI 54476
(715)-355-5570
107 S. 3rd Ave.
Edgar, WI 54426
(715)-352-3800
1819 Park Avenue
Plover, WI 54467
(715)-544-6100
http://quirtfamilydentistry.com
