The Top 5 Ways of Getting Your Teeth Whiter:
As noted by Wikipedia, tooth whitening is the most popular cosmetic dental service.
WHITENING TOOTHPASTE:
1. Whitening Toothpaste: The toothpaste is applied just as any toothpaste and will give a lighter appearance. The improved whiteness is usually not extreme but with repeated application can give a cleaner look. Patients have reported sensitivity from the whitening agent.
WHITENING STRIPS
2. Whitening Strips: Patients can buy this over the counter. The plastic strip is applied to the teeth and worn for the indicated period of time for that manufacturer. This system works for many patients. Some patients report sensitivity from this product, but that is true of all whitening agents. Potassium nitrate toothpastes can help with sensitivity, especially when used for 2 weeks prior to whitening.
WHITENING GELS
3. Whitening Gels: Gels are placed in custom trays which are then placed over the teeth. Most people wear them while they sleep although some wear it for 2-6 hours during the day. 10-14 days or until the desired whiteness is achieved patients stop wearing the trays. After that more gels can be purchased to touch up the whiteness.
IN-OFFICE WHITENING
4. In-office Whitening: Teeth are carefully isolated before placing the in office gel on the teeth and activating it with the light (there are also non light-activated products). Once applied the light stays on for a total of 45-60 minutes. These products will jump start the whitening but will not give a whiter result from whitening gels. There are reports of sensitivity for up to 3 days in some patients.
DENTAL VENEERS AND CROWNS
Veneers and crowns: These are products placed permanently on the teeth. They are made from composite filling material or porcelain. Porcelain is usually made in the lab. With the improvement in porcelains, cements and bonding materials, esthetic results can be amazing!
LohmannDental in Buckhead has helped hundreds of people get their smile back.