Over time, teeth will naturally become darker. Based on different habits, this may be enhanced, but there’s no need to worry. Your dentist may recommend home teeth whitening as a way to bring your teeth back to its original pearly white.
Causes of Stained Teeth
Tooth discoloration may be age-related, as well as other external factors and habits. Certain foods and drinks can stain teeth. These include coffee, tea, and even some fruits and vegetables. Smoking is also infamous for staining teeth.
Poor oral hygiene can be a factor, as plaque build up can cause stains. Additionally, certain medications can cause stains due to particular chemicals in the medication.
How Home Teeth Whitening Works
Home teeth whitening starts with the construction of a custom fit mouth tray made by your dentist. The dentist will take an impression of your teeth after cleaning and create a tray made specifically for your mouth. The dentist will also instruct you on how to apply a hydrogen peroxide gel onto the tray, which will bleach your teeth.
The length of time you’ll need to wear the tray will depend on the severity of your teeth stains, as well as the concentration of gel your dentist recommends. It may take a few minutes or even a few hours everyday.
Results of Home Teeth Whitening
After the process of home teeth whitening, the results may last anywhere from a few months to a few years. This is obviously dependent on the staining factors mentioned earlier, since certain habits will reintroduce stains. While teeth whitening is a great solution for removing stains, it does not prevent future stains from happening, which is something to keep in mind moving forward.
It is also important to take into account potential side effects you may feel after whitening your teeth. Heightened teeth sensitivity is one of the most prominent side effects. This may cause discomfort when eating particularly hot or cold foods. This sensitivity is generally mild, and most of the time it will subside with time. A highly concentrated fluoride toothpaste or desensitizing toothpaste can help alleviate this symptom.
If you feel extreme tooth sensitivity during the teeth whitening process, try decreasing the amount of time you wear the mouth tray, or consider stopping the process completely.
If you’re considering home teeth whitening, contact Baylee Dental today for a consultation to see if this process is right for you. Baylee Dental is here to assist you every step of the way for a brighter and healthier smile.
