Have you noticed how heroes in TV and movies have killer smiles and white teeth? Meanwhile, villains are often portrayed as having crooked or discolored teeth. Regardless of the imagery, many people today want to have whiter teeth.
It’s not surprising then that teeth whitening is one of the most requested dental procedures. Companies are more than willing to give them that. The teeth whitening market value was at $6.9 billion in 2021. It’s expected to reach $10.6 billion by 2030.
There are thousands of whitening toothpastes, films, and gels on the market today. Experts are also developing more clinic-based procedures. This will ensure consumers get the sparkling teeth they want. But how does teeth whitening work? We’ll give you a quick rundown.
Understanding the Teeth Whitening Process
Teeth are semi-permeable. This means it allows certain substances to pass through it. A solvent can pass through a semi-permeable membrane or material. But some solutes can’t pass through.
Teeth also change due to a person’s circumstances. The exterior surface of a tooth’s enamel can darken due to what we eat or drink. Coffee, tea, and cigarettes are the top culprits for this. Age and injuries to the teeth can also change their color.
Teeth whitening is the process that makes an individual’s teeth appear whiter. There are various whitening methods you can use. For example, stains on the tooth can become sanded down. Teeth can also become bleached. You can also opt for ultraviolet light therapy. There are also hundreds of teeth whitening products you can try at home.
Teeth whitening procedures use chemicals that are safe for the enamel. Hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide are two chemicals used for teeth whitening. They can permeate into the tooth enamel. They can then break the stains down into smaller components and make them less visible. It’s how teeth whitening at dentist clinics works.
It’s different when it comes to whitening toothpaste. The toothpaste often has a material with abrasive particles. These work as an abrasive to help remove stains from the teeth’s outer surface. It won’t change the teeth’s actual color though.
Are Teeth Whitening Services and Products Safe?
Teeth whitening products and procedures are safe. The caveat is these products must be ADA-approved. The user must also use the product based on its specific instructions.
It’s better if you consult your dentist first. Ask them about the best professional teeth whitening treatment. Get their advice even if you prefer to do the teeth whitening process at home. This is to ensure that you don’t experience serious side effects. Many people experienced gum irritation or had sensitive teeth after undergoing teeth whitening. The effects are temporary and will subside once you’re done with the whitening process.
What are Your Teeth Whitening Options?
Consumers are now spoiled for choice when it comes to teeth whitening. There are many dental treatments they can undergo. There are also over-the-counter products they can use.
- In-Office Treatment: This is the best and safest way to get whiter teeth. An in-office teeth whitening procedure is also very effective. The dentist will apply a whitening gel on the teeth. This gel will have a high concentration of active ingredients. The dentist might also use light to speed up the whitening process. It’s a quick procedure that lasts less than an hour. The results are also noticeable.
- Home Whitening Kits: A take-home kit uses a similar whitening process. The user will also apply a whitening gel. It has a lower concentration of active ingredients. That’s why they must apply the gel several times before they can see the effects. The dentist will provide the gel kit and a customized mouth tray.
Bringing Beautiful Smiles Back to Your Life
Dentistry of Orlando will give you more reasons to smile. We are one of the premier dental clinics in the city of Orlando. We use the latest technology to make sure you have healthy teeth and a wonderful smile. We have a dental staff of 15 talented individuals in our two clinics. We’re all dedicated to giving our clients the best dental care.We perform emergency dental services. We also work to improve your oral health. Our services include dental cleanings and tooth extractions. We do composite fillings and teeth whitening. We also accept same-day appointments. There’s no need to suffer from tooth pain. Give us a call at (407) 249-9292 or (407) 851-5555. You can also message us here to make an appointment.
