There are many causes of tooth discoloration. One option for enhancing the aesthetic of your teeth and achieving a brighter smile is teeth whitening. There are various options for teeth whitening, and it is vital that no matter which option you choose, you follow the necessary steps to complete the procedure safely. Read on to discover more about the options for teeth whitening near you.
What Causes Tooth Discolouration?
The main reasons for tooth discoloration are:
Extrinsic discoloration:
This is when external substances such as food, drink, and tobacco products stain your teeth. You can treat this condition with whitening toothpaste that rectifies stains on the outside of your teeth.
Intrinsic discoloration:
This type of discoloration comes from within the tooth. Intrinsic discoloration is caused by things such as medication use, illness, infection, and aging. In these cases, professional bleaching by a dentist near you is recommended.
You can visit a dentist in NE Calgary to determine what type of staining you have and specify the best whitening option for you.
Options for Teeth Whitening
Since there is a wide array of options for teeth whitening in NE Calgary, it may be difficult for you to determine which options are the safest and best to use.
There are three categories of whitening procedures, those that are:
- Applied by a dentist near you
- Provided by your dentist to use at home
- Provided over the counter or made by you at home without help from your dentist
Factors that may affect the method you choose for teeth whitening include:
- Whether you have extrinsic or intrinsic discoloration
- The cost of treatment
- Your age
- Your dental history
It is helpful to discuss the options for teeth whitening with a dentist in NE Calgary before using one. Your dentist can examine your situation and make a recommendation based on your individual needs.
Professional Teeth Whitening Near You
Your dentist can provide several options for teeth whitening in-clinic or at home. Usually, all teeth whitening options use carbamide peroxide, which targets your tooth’s color and uses a chemical reaction to bleach your tooth. This is considered a safe method of teeth whitening.
In-Clinic Whitening Treatment
Getting your teeth whitened in a dental clinic can be beneficial because these treatments often take effect rapidly and have longer-lasting results. In-clinic treatments are recommended for individuals who have receding gums or lesions.
At-Home Treatment with Guidance from your Dentist
Dentists can also provide you with ways to whiten your teeth at home. They may provide you with custom trays and gel to use and wear at home, along with instructions for use.
Other At-home Teeth Whitening Options
There are many over-the-counter options for teeth whitening in NE Calgary. Still, these products are not as effective as products offered by your dentist, especially if you are experiencing intrinsic tooth discoloration. It is essential always to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using an over-the-counter product.
Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is generally considered a safe practice, but you may still have some side effects from whitening treatments, including:
- Teeth sensitivity: You may find that your teeth feel more sensitive after teeth whitening. This feeling may go away over time, and there are options that your dentist can provide to help with sensitivity. Options include products that contain potassium nitrate and sodium fluoride gel.
- Gum irritation: It is possible to also experience some gingival irritation after the whitening treatment. This happens when your gums make contact with the whitening product, and eventually, this side effect should go away on its own.
So, is Teeth Whitening Safe?
As long as you use dentist-approved methods for whitening, this procedure is thought to be safe. Ensure that you talk to your dentist about your needs and always follow the advice and directions you are given for the product you choose.
