If you are worried about tooth discoloration, teeth whitening may be something you are considering. Whether you opt for whitening at home or by your dentist, being informed of your options can ensure you make the best decision for you and your teeth. There are many over the counter options available today, but there are also professional, dentist-supervised treatments that are much safer and give more consistent results.
In-Chair Whitening
The fastest and easiest way to whiten your teeth is to have a procedure done at your dentist’s office. Whitening this way allows for immediate results as opposed to at-home whitening systems that require days or weeks to gradually build up to that level of whitening. A one-time in-chair whitening session can last a long time depending on your hygiene and eating habits. Call to set up an appointment for an older child or even adults.
Tray Whitening
Tray whitening can be done on your own or supervised by your dentist. It is accomplished by a tray that you wear for a specified period (generally less than an hour for over the counter products or overnight if supervised by a professional). One benefit to going through your dentist for this type of whitening is that your dentist can make sure that you are a candidate and instruct on how best to use the product. The product that we use in the office is superior to over the counter products available. Over the counter products generally are weaker and might not be a good choice.
Once the trays are complete, you use a special whitening gel and manage whitening at home on your own. Treatment time depends on the type of tray and specific gel product you have. This can be completed again at any time if you feel your teeth have started to discolor again.
Whitening Strips
Whitening strips are thin pieces of extremely flexible plastic that have been covered in peroxide. Each package contains a specified number of strips and can generally be found at any pharmacy or grocery store. To use whitening strips, attach them to the front of your teeth and wear them for approximately 30 minutes each day for two weeks, or according to package instructions. This is done completely on your own with no dental supervision.
Toothpaste and General Care
Our teeth often become yellow as we age but also due to extrinsic stains on the outside of the teeth. Food items like coffee, tea, and wine often cause this stain. Using a good toothpaste and getting regular checkups can lower and sometimes eliminate this type of staining. Extra cleaning may be all that your child needs. At times enamel building toothpaste can help to remineralize and help seal the micro-cracks in your teeth. The best option may be a prescription toothpaste, which can deliver up to five times the fluoride of over the counter toothpaste, defending against cavities and protecting the enamel from further damage.
Ready to Get Started?
Call us at Adelberg Pediatric Dental at one of our three locations; Massapequa Park (516) 798-1111, Nesconset (631) 360-7337, or West Islip (631) 661-7337, or make an appointment online!