How Teeth Whitening has Become an Obsession and What You Need to Know
Cosmetic Dentistry, and teeth whitening in particular, has become an obsession for some Americans. As of 2007, nearly a decade ago, Americans were spending over $1.4 billion dollars annually on teeth whitening products. That number has only gone up with a flood of new products and treatments being introduced to consumers.
According to the American Dental Association website, Mouthhealthy.org, there are three common ways of bleaching:
- In-office bleaching – Typically a one-visit approach, special lights or lasers are used to help whiten the teeth without damaging enamel or harming the soft tissue around your gums. – Typically a one-visit approach, special lights or lasers are used to help whiten the teeth without damaging enamel or harming the soft tissue around your gums.
- At-home bleaching – Strips and trays are used, typically with peroxide, to lift away stains. This option can be risky for those with sensitive teeth, or people who have fillings or crowns on their front teeth.
- Whitening toothpaste/products – Many of the toothpaste brands have some kind of whitening toothpaste, mouthwash and strips available on the market. Depending on the brand, there are additional concerns such as the plastic micro beads that some brands put in the paste to add texture.
How Do Your Teeth Get Stained in the First Place?
Diet and habits have a measurable effect on the color of your teeth. Things like wine, coffee, tea, berries and soda all can leave teeth yellowed and stained. Smokers also will suffer stains on their teeth. In both cases, cutting down or quitting some of these color-causing behaviors will not only keep your teeth looking whiter, but also help with oral and physical well-being. This is definitely a time when “everything in moderation” will ring true.
Some people are doing more damage than good by overcompensating to quicken the process. Improper cleaning techniques and practices can harm your mouth, gums and even damage your teeth’s roots. Make sure you work with a professional dentist when deciding what techniques you are going to employ, and the products that you are going to use when working to whiten your teeth. As always, it’s good to have a solid plan in place.
What Can Fulmer Dental of Kenosha and Paddock Lake do for You?
Our general dentistry serves Kenosha and Paddock Lake and the surrounding communities in an effort to keep their mouths healthy, teeth clean and smiles beautiful. We specialize in the process of cosmetic teeth whitening services that are safe and effective. If you have any questions involving the teeth whitening process or if it is right for you, consult with us to help you make the right decisions.
Stop in to visit with Dr. Fulmer to help create a comprehensive plan of teeth cleaning techniques to have your smile looking better going forward.