Dentists Putney Whitening: Tooth Whitening For the Perfect Smile?
Two Options for Whitening: Tooth Bleaching or Laser Whitening
As far as dentists Putney has some of the best practitioners in the greater London area. If you’re thinking about tooth whitening, there are two main treatments that dentists typically use. You can either opt for bleaching your teeth or for whitening them via laser treatment.
Whitening your Teeth vs. Bleaching your Teeth
Actually, the term smile whitening sounds better than saying tooth bleaching; yet, there is a difference. Generally, toothpastes contain the ingredients that will remove stains on your teeth or “whiten” them whereas bleaching entails making the enamel several shades lighter. Therefore, there is a bit of a distinction between the two terms although they are often used interchangeably.
Surface Stains
There are several reasons that teeth can develop stains. Some stains form on the surfaces of the tooth. Called extrinsic stains, these stains can be caused by:
- Drinking coffee, tea or cola
- Eating certain foods
- Smoking
When Bleaching is Advised
These types of stains can usually be removed by dental cleanings and regular brushing. When these kinds of stains prove to be stubborn, you can then consider a procedure such as tooth bleaching. Usually tooth bleaching will resolve the problem, especially if the stain has managed to penetrate the layer of the tooth called the dentin.
Interior Stains
Other stains, referred to as intrinsic stains, can be found on the interior of the tooth and are usually the result of:
- Overuse of fluoride
- Age – teeth can become discolored over time as the result of the staining as well as use
- Trauma
How Dental Professionals in Putney Can Help you Achieve a Whiter Smile
When it comes to dentists Putney whitening specialists can make significant alterations in the shade of one’s teeth in a short amount of time. Using a peroxide-based gel, dental professionals apply this formulation to the patient’s teeth. The gums are painted with a hardening resin that is used to protect against sensitivity caused by the gel. The gel is applied to what are called the esthetic zone teeth. These are the teeth that generally appear when you smile. Usually the peroxide application stays on the teeth for up to half an hour and is then removed. The substance is reapplied one or two more times.
Laser Treatment
As mentioned, usually bleaching has been proven an effective treatment for extrinsic stains as well as stains that result from the aging process. Dentists can also remove stains and whiten teeth by laser treatment. Using a hydrogen peroxide based gel, the laser is used for fast, immediate results. However, you do have to be careful about certain side effects such as pain and sensitivity. Usually the dentist will recommend that you take a pain medication before the procedure to lessen any discomfort.
Recommendations for Keeping your Teeth Stain-free
Whatever type of whitening procedure you choose, you will need to follow certain guidelines to keep your teeth looking their best. Therefore, it’s best to avoid consuming foods or drinks that can stain your teeth, such as oranges, red wine, chocolate, cola or coffee. One side effect you may experience is sensitivity to cold and hot or some gum soreness. If you choose to undergo laser whitening, any side effect will only last a couple days at the most.
Tooth whitening is a good way to enhance your smile. Many of the dentists in Putney can help you do just that.