Great White Teeth - Its Safe To Go Back To Your Dentist

By Author: Dental Studio
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No, we're not talking about the movie "Jaws", although that shark did have some pretty nice pearly whites.
Tooth whitening. That's what we mean. What's it all about? In this article, we will go back in the Auckland area dental "waters" and find some answers for you.
Today there are three convenient ways to whiten your natural teeth, over the counter (OTC), at your dentist's office, or both.
Great White Teeth over the Counter
Hydrogen peroxide (HP) and car amide peroxide (CP) are the two whitening ingredients in OTC whitening products. There are dozens of product brands containing these chemical agents. These products are available in different oral delivery systems.

Whitening Toothpastes: Contain more abrasive (scrubbing) ingredients, detergents and may contain a small amount of HP or CP.
Whitening strips and gels: Strips are placed on the front (facial) side of the front teeth. They are applied 2-3 times daily for 30-60 minutes. Gels are brushed on the teeth with a small brush for the same time(s). Both require about 14 days to achieve a ...
... 1-2 shade improvement.
Whitening rinses: An improvement of 1-2 shades may be expected in 3 months with twice a day rinsing for 60 seconds.
Tray based whiteners: This form of whitening treatment is available OTC and at dental offices that offer it. A tray that fits around and over the top of the teeth is filled with a peroxide-based gel and worn for different periods of time depending on the concentration of whitener, 1-2 hours typically, sometimes overnight. Results of 1-2 shades may be seen in a few days.

Great White Teeth at the Dental Office
The main advantage of having your teeth whitened by a dentist is that the improvement in shade of the teeth is completed in 30-60 minutes. In an office procedure, lighter tooth shades can often be achieved versus OTC products.
The secret to in-office whitening is the larger concentration of whitening ingredients used in the procedure. The dentist protects the gums from any harmful effects of these agents using various methods.
Some dentists may use special lights or lasers in the process. There is some disagreement amongst dental experts on the efficacy of lights used for whitening procedures. To be sure, the extra expense of an OTC kit containing a cheap LED light is money ill spent.
Risks
Tooth whitening both OTC and in the dental office has been shown to be a safe and effective means to achieve whiter teeth. There are some risks or side effects however; generally related to the strength of the whitening solution and the length it is left on the teeth.

Mild tooth sensitivity: Sensitivity may occur at the initial treatment and last for a few days. Any severe sensitivity should be reported to a dentist.
Mild gingival (gum) irritation: Once again, gum irritation like tooth sensitivity may occur immediately on application and last a few days. See your dentist for any untoward gum irritation.
Whitening agents may adversely affect some types of plastic veneers or fillings. Check with your dentist prior to using these products if you think you may be affected.

If you want to have a stable whitening result with long lasting and the whitest tooth shades, the optimal way to do this is to combine in-office whitening with OTC methods.
Now that you have the information on the best ways to get some great white teeth, visit our friendly, affordable and quality dentists at Stanmore Bay Dental Studio located in Whangaparao. We can provide you with all your in-office tooth whitening needs, questions or estimates and we're only a short hike to the water, but check with the life guards first.

The Stanmore Bay Dental Studio (https://www.dentalstudio.nz/) provides general, cosmetic, hygienist and emergency dental treatments in a state-of-the-art facility. Book an appointment now on 09 424 0651.