With modern dentistry, having a perfect smile feels more achievable than ever. While that is true, researching the best way to achieve your dream smile can lead to information overload, leaving you unsure where to start.
In this blog, we explore the different options available for whitening your teeth and creating a brighter smile. By the end, you’ll know about the different kinds of dental staining, the range of whitening treatments available, and their respective pros and cons.
How Dental Stains Develop
There are many factors that can cause you to develop dental stains. Some people are genetically predisposed to certain types of staining and may even have a degree of staining on their baby teeth. Usually though, stains are caused by the things you consume. Foods with artificial colours, drinks like coffee and red wine and even some medications can cause teeth to stain, as well as smoking.
Ultimately, there are two types of dental stains and they exist at different layers of the tooth.
1. Intrinsic Stains
As the name suggests, intrinsic stains occur inside your tooth’s hard protective layer of enamel. Generally speaking, this kind of staining results from the use of certain antibiotics, aging and exposure to high levels of fluoride, as well as genetic factors.
2. Extrinsic Stains
In contrast, extrinsic stains cause discolouration of the tooth’s exterior, affecting the enamel itself. Though these stains can also be caused by antibiotic use, it’s more common for them to arise because of the things you eat and drink.
Different Approaches to Teeth Whitening
An entire industry has developed around creating whiter teeth. Treatments range from teeth whitening toothpastes that you can buy at the supermarket to professional procedures performed by a qualified dentist.
Broadly speaking these approaches can be broken down into two categories: DIY and professional. Many of the same chemicals, like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide peroxide, are used across DIY and professional treatments, but their quantities will differ, as well as the precision with which they are applied.
DIY Teeth Whitening
There are two main kinds of DIY teeth whitening treatments:
- Whitening products: Toothpastes and mouthwashes that use mild abrasives like baking soda or charcoal to help with stain removal, as well as relatively low quantities of hydrogen and carbamide peroxide.
- Home whitening kits: over the counter gels or pastes that are applied to the teeth daily for several weeks, usually with a brush or via sticky strips. A mouthguard may also be used to keep the whitening agent in place and limit exposure to your gums.
Pros
- It’s cheaper than professional teeth whitening
- Products are available in supermarkets and over the counter at chemists
- DIY treatments tend to also include fluoride, which helps prevent future staining
Cons
- It’s less effective than professional teeth whitening
- You may permanently damage your tooth enamel if you misuse the products
- Treatments take longer to work and require regular reapplications
Professional Teeth Whitening
Receiving a professional teeth whitening treatment at a dental surgery involves many of the same whitening agents as those used in DIY methods but applied in higher quantities with greater precision. As such, results are achieved more quickly (usually in around 30 minutes). The process is also safer because your dental professional can ensure your gums and other sensitive areas are not exposed during the treatment.
Pros
- You’ll see more immediate results than you would from DIY teeth whitening
- A dental professional will ensure the treatment is applied correctly
- You’ll receive personalised aftercare instructions
Cons
- It’s more expensive than DIY teeth whitening
- Teeth whitening is a cosmetic procedure, so it’s not covered by insurance
- It is better suited to severe staining
Phoenix Road Dental Teeth Whitening Perth
Are you considering professional teeth whitening? Our expert team is here to help! We provide safe and effective treatments to help you brighten your smile at an affordable cost, including in-office Philips ZOOM teeth whitening and custom-made take home kits.
Contact our friendly team today or book a consultation online.