One of the first things people notice about you is your smile, so it's no wonder that teeth whitening is one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures. Millions of Americans spend billions of dollars each year on over-the-counter (OTC) and professional teeth whitening products and treatments.
Teeth can become stained or yellow for a variety of reasons:
- Drinking coffee, tea, or red wine
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
- Eating certain foods, such as blueberries or soy sauce
- Poor dental hygiene
- Age
- Taking certain medications, such as tetracycline
There are two main types of teeth whitening products and treatments: OTC whiteners and professional whitening.
OTC whiteners are available in gels, rinses, toothpaste, and strips. They contain bleaching ingredients like hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide that bleach the teeth.
Professional whitening is done by a dental professional, such as a dentist or dental hygienist. They use stronger bleaching agents to whiten teeth. Moreover, professional teeth whitening in Rocky Mountain House is more expensive than OTC whiteners, but it's also more effective.
If you're considering teeth whitening, it's important to understand the pros and cons, as well as the risks and side effects.
Pros of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure because it has many benefits, including:
- Whitening stained or yellow Teeth
- Boosting self-confidence and self-esteem
- Making teeth look healthier
Cons of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening also has some downsides, including:
- It's a cosmetic procedure, so it's not covered by dental insurance.
- It's not permanent. You may need to repeat the procedure every few months or years to maintain the results.
- It may not be effective on all types of stains.
- It can cause side effects, such as tooth sensitivity and gum irritation.
Risks and Side Effects of Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is generally safe, but there are some risks and side effects to consider.
- Tooth sensitivity is the most common side effect of teeth whitening. It can cause temporary discomfort, tingling, or pain.
- Gum irritation is another possible side effect. You may experience redness, swelling, or tenderness in the gums.
- Whitening products can also cause chemical burns. This is more likely to happen if you use whitening products too often or leave them on your teeth for too long.
If you experience any of these side effects, stop whitening your teeth and see your dentist.
How to Whiten Teeth Safely?
If you want to whiten your teeth, there are a few things you can do to minimize the risks and side effects:
- Follow the instructions on the product label
- Avoid whitening products that are not approved by the FDA
- Talk to your dentist before whitening your teeth, especially if you have sensitive teeth or gums
Professional teeth whitening is the safest and most effective way to achieve results. A dentist can help you choose the right whitening product and method for your needs. However, if you’re looking for a dramatic teeth whitening transformation, Zoom teeth whitening in Rocky Mountain House may be right for you.
So, What is Zoom Teeth Whitening?
Zoom teeth whitening is a professional tooth whitening treatment that uses a bleaching gel and special ultraviolet light to whiten teeth in one office visit significantly. Procedure times vary, but a typical Zoom teeth whitening session takes about an hour and a half.
During your Zoom teeth whitening session, your dentist or teeth whitening technician will first apply a layer of petroleum jelly or another type of barrier to your gums to protect them from the bleaching gel. They will then apply the gel to your teeth and place you under the Zoom light for 15 minutes.
After 15 minutes, the gel is removed, and another layer is applied. You will then be placed under the Zoom light for another 15 minutes. This process is repeated two more times for a total of four gel applications and one hour under the Zoom light.
Once the Zoom teeth whitening treatment is finished, your dentist or teeth whitening technician will apply a fluoride gel to your teeth to help reduce any sensitivity you may experience afterward.
Now that you have gained enough knowledge about teeth whitening, what are you waiting for? Find a reliable dentist in Rocky Mountain House to discuss your case now!