What Is Tooth Whitening?

One of the most popular treatments in cosmetic dentistry is tooth whitening. Our teeth can start losing their natural white color, become dark, or develop marks and stains due to various factors. This is a common problem that may not be resolved with brushing the teeth. Tooth whitening procedure helps to whiten the teeth to an extent in a very simple and non-invasive manner.

Tooth whitening involves cleaning the extrinsic, superficial stains from the tooth structures, and improving the color of the teeth with the help of a chemical gel or solution. The procedure of tooth whitening has become so common that several over the counter solutions are sold in the marketplace today. The patient can buy such medications and perform the process within the comfort of his home. But the downside is that such tooth whitening procedures may not be very effective or long lasting because of the weak concentration of the chemical used.

Even for a home based tooth whitening solution, a better way is to do it under the supervision of a dentist. The dentist would prepare custom trays to fit the teeth of the patient perfectly. The whitening solution or gel would also usually have a better concentration to produce better results for the patient.

The most effective method of performing tooth whitening procedure is to have it done as an “in-office” treatment. Here the dentist will perform the process directly at his office. He or she is able to use the highest concentration of the whitening gel because the circumstances are within his control at office. At the same time, the dentist can use a combination of gel and halogen lighting, which is a latest technique for producing more effective and lasting results for the patients.

Therefore, the patient has various options for the tooth whitening procedure. Depending on his or her needs, the patient may opt for the best method and achieve a brighter and whiter smile.

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