Teeth whitening systems have become very popular over the past few decades. Over the course of an adult lifetime, many environmental and dietary factors can alter the coloring on one's teeth enamel. The most serious teeth-staining culprits are tobacco and coffee. In order to combat enamel discoloration, dentists and companies specializing in dental supplies have developed various teeth whitening systems. Most of these systems include tooth bleach.
Teeth bleach usually comes in the form of a gel or viscous liquid that can be applied to the teeth for a period of time lasting anywhere from just a few moments to several hours. While the solution coats the teeth, it slowly lifts the stains that have been caused by years of exposure to certain foods, beverages, and chemicals that are found in things like cigars, cigarettes, and sodas. When the solution is removed from the teeth, the teeth are less stained and a lighter shade of white. Teeth whitening is almost always a purely cosmetic procedure.
There are many different kinds of teeth whitenings systems that have a wide range in both price and time commitment. Furthermore, it is possible to have your teeth whitened at home or at your dentist's office. It is also possible to purchase teeth whitening strips at your local drug store.
These over-the-counter products usually include either strips that affix to the teeth or trays that fit on top of the teeth. In the case of strips, a gel with teeth bleach is usually already lined on one side of the strips. There are even strips that are designed to dissolve completely so that you don't have to remove them from your mouth once they have completed their work of whitening your teeth. In the case of the trays, there is usually a solution of teeth bleach that is to be poured or smeared into the teeth trays prior before fitting them over the teeth.
If you decide to have your teeth whitened at your dentist's office, you are likely to pay more. However, it is also likely that the results will be more precise and effective. Furthermore, you probably won't have to worry about dealing with trays or strips as your dentist will likely apply a gel including teeth bleach directly to your teeth. Your dentist may also use a special light to speed up the process.
It is also possible to whiten your teeth with mouthwash. Some mouthwash companies have developed new products that include teeth bleach and will, over time, help to decrease the appearance of enamel stains.
