What is Teeth Whitening, and How Does it Work?

While Zoom made it possible for many workers to switch to remote work during the pandemic, it also impacted how employees perceived their appearance. Nearly 35% of people who used Zoom stated they felt less attractive on video calls. 

The result was an increase in cosmetic procedures. Your smile and teeth may be one area you feel self-conscious about. Simple procedures like teeth whitening can help boost your confidence and self-esteem!

Are you tired of using over-the-counter products? Luckily, we have compiled a complete guide on how professional whitening kits are the go-to method and how they can benefit your smile. Keep reading on for more information!

What Are Teeth Whitening Procedures?

Teeth whitening is a non-invasive dental procedure that whitens the enamel of your teeth. It is considered a cosmetic procedure that can enhance the beauty of your smile.

Changing the color of your enamel is usually achieved through a chemical reaction. Most solutions contain peroxide that removes stains or discoloration. 

At-Home Teeth Whitening Kits

There are a few different types of teeth whitening procedures, starting with simple at-home kits. These kits are easy-to-use and only take a few minutes to apply. 

The downside is you will likely have to repeat this same process in another few months. There are a few other downsides to at-home kits, such as:

  • Improperly labeled bleach concentration levels
  • Gum irritation
  • Increased tooth sensitivity
  • Tooth damage

You shouldn't use these home whitening kits if you have specific allergies, crowns, or braces. To avoid complications, it is best if you consult with a trusted dentist first.

Professional Dentist Teeth Whitening Kits

A qualified dentist best handles higher-quality and long-lasting teeth whitening. When searching for a "cosmetic dentist Friendswood," you will want to find a clinic that offers teeth whitening under their cosmetic services.

This ensures that they have experience and expertise with professional teeth whitening procedures. Once you visit a dentist, you will have two options:

  • In-clinic teeth whitening
  • Professional at-home kits

Most clinics use hydrogen peroxide to whiten enamel and remove staining. Here is what you can expect from a dental whitening procedure in-clinic:

  • Record the current color/shade of your teeth
  • Remove surface plaque
  • Using retractors or other methods to protect gums and soft tissue
  • Apply whitening coating
  • Use laser or curing product, if needed
  • Rinse

Visiting a dentist in Friendswood TX provides you with the flexibility to whiten teeth from the comfort of your home. And you will bypass the side effects and risks you may experience with purchasing grocery store whitening strips.

What Is the Opalescence Go System?

The Opalescence Go system is a professional at-home teeth whitening kit. DIY products sometimes require a dental impression or ordering through a clinic. 

They include professionally measured and concentrated trays that typically take one to two weeks. Professional home whitening tools have several benefits, such as:

  • Cheaper than in-clinic procedures
  • More effective than over-the-counter products
  • Delivers fast results
  • Easy-to-use
  • Safe

The Opalescence Go system is an all-around teeth whitening product that doesn't require dental impressions. If you have white spots, your dentist may use the Icon system first. Here are a few other benefits of choosing the Opalescence Go kit:

  • Immediately ready for use
  • Conforms to any smile
  • Uses safe concentrations of hydrogen peroxide
  • Added potassium nitrate and fluoride for comfort

The Icon system removes white spots leftover from orthodontic treatments. Afterward, you can start using the Opalescence Go system.

Is Hydrogen Peroxide Safe for Teeth?

Yes, hydrogen peroxide has been used in the dental cosmetic industry for years. It is also found in several kinds of toothpaste and mouthwash. 

Medical experts found that within specific concentrations, it does not harm enamel.

Over-the-counter products typically contain lower amounts. These concentrations make it safer for long-term use, but they are relatively ineffective at significant whitening. 

However, prolonged use of professional whitening kits with hydrogen peroxide dosages closer to 10% to 20% could lead to damage. Instead, use your teeth whitening kits as prescribed (usually up to ten days) and wait another twelve months before reapplying.

Does Teeth Whitening Work?

Teeth whitening depends on a few factors. The first one is where you get your product. Using your dentist's recommended product is likely to give you better results. 

Next, look at your lifestyle factors. There are several foods and drinks that contribute to teeth staining. Eliminating or moderating these foods and beverages can help prolong how long your teeth stay white. Here are some examples:

  • Red wine
  • Coffee
  • Tea
  • Fruit juice
  • Energy drinks
  • Tomato sauce
  • Candy

Medications and tobacco products can also lessen its effect. But does that mean you have to give up your morning coffee brew? Not necessarily. 

Instead, try brushing and flossing your teeth after drinking coffee and eating breakfast. This can help reduce discoloration and help your teeth whitening products work more efficiently. 

Lastly, ensure you visit your dentist regularly. They can check for tooth trauma or other diseases that may lead to discoloration and staining.

Start Smiling Brighter

Have you wondered how to get whiter teeth that last for more than a couple of weeks? If you have tried over-the-counter products in the past, it may be time to switch to professional teeth whitening. 

Your local dentist will help you with an at-home kit that is easy to use and delivers long-lasting results. Better yet, you only have to use them for up to a week and a half before you start seeing amazing results.

Are you ready to start smiling brighter? Contact us today to schedule your next appointment!

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