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Teeth Whitening & Cosmetic Dentistry - What's Available to You?

Avid coffee drinker? Smoker? Or maybe your tooth enamel stains easily; whatever the case, a big bright smile is much more appealing than stained or browning teeth that make you self-conscious. There are so many products on the market today that offer up just that. However, it has been my experience they aren’t all that they are cracked up to be. After all, these are your teeth we are talking about…a smile says a lot. Why take chances when you only get one set?

The least expensive option is over the counter products such as strips, paint-on whiteners and believe it or not…chewing gum! These products only give temporary results and limited results. If you choose a “as seen on TV” alternative; be careful, these products are acid and peroxide based. Which means, the acidic ingredients can do more damage than good to your teeth, tooth enamel and gums.

It’s my personal belief that when it comes to your teeth, eyes and feet you spend the money and get professional help. Teeth whitening or teeth bleaching is the most common cosmetic dental procedure today. Several types of procedures are available in dentist offices today, and I think after you have done some research, you will find it more affordable than you thought.

Britesmile Teeth Whitening
This in-office procedure consists of a clear gel being applied to the teeth; afterwards a specially designed light is used to “activate” the crystals that are in the gel. The activated crystals help to quickly lighten the tooth enamel. This is a one visit only process that takes approximately 2 hours from start to finish. Instant results are received, lightening your teeth by five shades therefore, if you are trying to be subtle about your teeth whitening, this may not be the procedure for you.
Laser Bleaching
A similar technique to Britesmile; Laser Bleaching starts with a translucent gel applied to the teeth and this time, the laser is the light that activates the crystals for the whitening process to occur. These in-office procedures use gels that contain hydrogen peroxide based products. Because it’s a professional cosmetic dentist, they are aware of what concentration levels to use without causing harm or damage to the patient.
Both of these tooth whitening techniques achieve instant results and on occasion temporary sensitivity to the teeth and gums. Results lasting 12 – 18 months.
Custom Fit Bleaching Trays
This is considered an at-home procedure; however, your bleaching trays are made by a professional cosmetic dentist. You will have an initial appointment to make molds of your mouth and they make your form fitting trays from those. The bleaching gel is purchased from the dentist which you use daily for a short period of time. Results are subtle with full whitening effects to appear in up to three weeks. A less expensive alternate to the in-office visits, with similar results that last 4 – 12 months.
Whitening Strips - Store Bought
A less expensive and easy alternative to other cosmetic dentistry options are the whitening strips available for purchase at nearly any supermarket or drug store. Simple to use; they are adhesive strips you place over the teeth and leave on for up to 30 minutes a day. Results are much slower and not as severe. Not always a perfect solution, some of these OTC whitening strips have been known to leave uneven whitening or blotches that tend to draw the attention to having attempted tooth whitening.

How white can your teeth become? The strongest of whitening products can brighten up to five shades. However, keep in mind before going gangbusters…brightening your smile 2 – 3 shades will make more of a difference than you can imagine. When in comes down to an analysis with your board certified dentist teeth generally fall into one of four color categories:

  • A (reddish brown)
  • B (reddish yellow)
  • C (gray)
  • D (reddish gray)

Remember, there is no way to darken them if you go too bright the first time. Each technique has their pros and cons…it’s up to you to discuss with a professional and decide what works best for your personal situation. But, I am certain that male or female, young or old….a bright white beautiful smile will make you feel better about yourself and make you smile more often. Now, who wouldn’t want to do that?


Carrie Written on Tuesday, 18 August 2009 13:05 by Carrie

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Dr. Daniel C. Mills, M.D.

Dr. Daniel C. Mills, M.D.

Daniel C. Mills, M.D., F.A.C.S. is nationally renowned cosmetic surgeon who is a part of a strong legacy in medicine - a family that has grown to include at least sixteen physicians. Dr. Mills constantly strives to utilize his education and experience, not only carry on this family legacy in the medical profession, but to leave a lasting footprint on the lives of his patients and his community as well.

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