Teeth whitening jetted to the top requested cosmetic service, reports the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. But before you get your whiter, brighter smile be aware of the risks. Teeth whitening can cause brittle or sensitive teeth and damage nerves or gums. Consult with Dr. Lauren at Orange Beach Family Dentistry and let a professional ensure you get the smile you’ve always wanted!
Teeth Whitening
You brush and floss regularly to keep your teeth and gums healthy. But no matter how hard you try, your teeth turn a shade of yellow — not your favorite color. Flash those pearly whites with confidence again. Nine out of 10 dental patients request teeth whitening. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry reports the procedure has jetted to the No. 1 cosmetic service today.
Teeth whitening has become so popular, in fact, it ballooned into an $11 billion industry. Americans spend $1.4 billion for over-the-counter products alone.
Before you join the stampede, know the risks. Increasing the sparkle of your teeth can cause them to become brittle or sensitive and lead to nerve or gum damage.
This becomes especially critical for teenagers. The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry warns parents to learn the best option to treat children 14 and up. Teeth whitening can cause nerve root shrinkage in teenagers before their permanent teeth have fully developed. Bigger nerves in permanent teeth will minimize tooth sensitivity.
You can avoid problems by allowing a professional dentist to give you the whiter, brighter smile you’ve always wanted.
Store Bought “Whitening” Products
You do have the option to brighten your smile by buying teeth whitening products to use at home. Over-the-counter teeth whitening strips and gels use a peroxide-based bleaching agent. The concentration ranges between 3-20 percent of carbide or hydrogen peroxide, much lower than trained dentists use. Often, these products must be applied directly to the teeth with a brush or thin strip. Additional, they typically require application one or two times a day for two weeks.
Although the at-home kits cost an average of $35, the trays or strips may fail to fit properly. This can cause severe sensitivity to teeth and irritation to gums. Make sure to follow the product’s directions and remove bleaching agents at the specified time to avoid causing even further damage.
Invest in Professional Teeth Whitening
For a better and longer lasting attractive smile, don’t waste your money on store bought products. Instead, consider a professional teeth whitening procedure with Dr. Lauren at Orange Beach Family Dentistry. Only a dentist can create a custom-made bleaching tray that properly fits your mouth. A dentist also uses professional grade whitening gel and bleach that typically contain between 15-43 percent peroxide. This eliminates chances of irritation or damage.
Orange Beach Family Dentistry goes one-step further and creates a tooth-whitening plan tailored to you. Discuss your diet, lifestyle, medications and any illnesses with Dr. Lauren and she will turn your smile from dull and dingy to the bright, white smile you’ve always wanted.
One of the premier teeth whitening procedures offered by Orange Beach Family Dentistry is Zoom Whitening. This powerful, professional-strength whitening system eliminates years of stains and discoloration immediately and painlessly. In-office treatments have made some patient’s smiles become up to eight shades whiter after one 45-minute session. You can also take Zoom Whitening treatments home, after going over your treatment plan with Dr. Lauren.
How to Care for Teeth after Whitening
Keep your teeth looking good by:
- Flossing and brushing daily
- Avoiding nicotine, soda, tea and coffee, which stain teeth
- Using a straw or brush your teeth, if you do drink these beverages
- Cleaning your teeth carefully, especially if you wear braces
Schedule Your Teeth Whitening Appointment Today!
Remember, not all teeth whitening procedures are created equal. Get the bright, white smile you’ve always wanted by calling Dr. Lauren and her Orange Beach Family Dentistry team today to schedule a visit!