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Teeth whitening is
probably the most popular cosmetic dental procedure
today. Using a hydrogen peroxide based gel, tooth whitening
can be very effective in lightening stained or yellow
teeth, or teeth that have turned gray as the result
of taking Tetracycline during childhood. People who
have stains from years of smoking, coffee or red wine
can also get very good results with teeth whitening.
There are two commonly used techniques
for professional tooth whitening: in-office bleaching
or take home bleaching.
in-office bleaching: In office
bleaching is a quick, easy way to get very fast results.
A protective gel is applied to your gums and lips. A
bleaching gel is then applied to the teeth and a high
intensity light or laser in used to activate the gel.
Your teeth are monitored and the process is repeated,
as your dentist deems necessary. The process usually
takes 1-2 hours, and the results are visible immediately.
take home bleaching: Take
home bleaching starts with the dentist taking an impression
of your mouth to make custom fitted trays. The trays
are tried on to make sure they fit correctly, and the
dentist gives you a solution of hydrogen or carbamide
peroxide to use at home for a period of time. It may
take several weeks of overnight treatments to reach
your desired results. Take home bleaching treatments
can be used instead of in-office laser whitening, or
it may used to enhance or prolong the effects of your
laser tooth whitening treatment.
side effects: The most
common side effect with either in-office or home bleaching
is sensitivity to temperature, which usually disappears
within a few days.
cost: Take home bleaching
treatments cost about $500 to $1000. In-office professional
tooth whitening may cost $1000 or more per treatment,
and more than one treatment may be necessary to reach
your desire level of whiteness and brightness.
results: With proper care,
your white teeth can remain beautiful for many years.
Coffee, tea, wine, and smoking will contribute to early
discoloration.
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