Over-the-counter Options
Among the most popular teeth whitening options available are whitening strips and whitening toothpaste sold at your neighborhood drug store. Whitening kits typically contain paint-on gel, whitening strips, or trays.
The strips contain a reduced concentration of the same bleaching agents used by dentists. The greater the percentage of peroxide included in the products, the less time required to wear the strips.
Whitening toothpaste contains a special polishing agent that will increase the effectiveness of stain removal. Unlike the bleaching products, whitening toothpaste will not change the actual tooth color. It is important to note also that any existing dental work you’ve received in the past will not whiten, so it’s important to ask a professional for advice before you begin any treatments.
Professional Teeth Whitening Albuquerque
Our Albuquerque cosmetic dentist professionals offer in-office procedures that provide desired results in a single visit. Before the teeth are exposed to a laser, they are coated with whitening gel. This is one of the fastest teeth whitening methods you will find!
Another option is known as chair-side bleaching, which may require multiple office visits to obtain the desired results. Each office visit can last anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. This process can effectively whiten teeth by as much as 10 shades.
More cost effective than laser bleaching, custom fit tray bleaching is also a popular alternative. The dentist will make a custom fit plastic tray and provide bleaching gel to be used at home. Generally, you will start to see results in about two weeks. Some products are designed to be used overnight, while others are applied twice daily.
Risks to Consider
Teeth whitening can sometimes cause irritation or sensitivity along the gums. Therefore, some dentists will recommend waiting until you are over the age of 16 before bleaching, because teens are more susceptible to such sensitivity.
According to the Academy of General Dentistry, teens should wait until they are over the age of 14 before undergoing any teeth whitening procedures. This allows time for the tooth pulp to form completely, which will lead to decreased sensitivity.
If you have questions about teeth whitening for your teen, or maybe for even yourself, give the experts at LoPour & Associates DDS in Albuquerque a call today! Having a brighter, whiter smile has never been easier!
