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Popular Alternatives for Achieving a Bright White Smile

We live in a world where aesthetic standards have changed greatly and are constantly changing. While in the past the "acceptance" of the natural was much greater, today bright, white teeth have become almost an obsession. In fact, nowadays it is an expectation that beauty is accompanied by a clear and luminous smile.

Technological advancements have resulted in a variety of techniques that facilitate access to whitening treatments. Below, I clarify some of the most popular approaches.

The active compound that causes the whitening is most commonly Hydrogen Peroxide. What will vary is the concentration and the form of activation of this compound.

When done in a dental office, the most popular option in the market is the use of hydrogen peroxide gel in higher concentrations, activated by lighting-emitting diode (“LED”)/laser light.

Generally, there is a greater degree of dehydration of the teeth with this technique which can result in sensitivity after the procedure. Some patients will develop more sensitivity than others and although fleeting, this is not a pleasant sensation in more severe cases.

A great and most advanced option for whitening in the office is the use of Laser as an activator. The results are excellent, because they have more penetration and cause far less dehydration. The use of the Laser generates much less postoperative sensitivity. More recently,ionic activation has also reached the market, which promises virtually zero pain after the procedure and also faster sessions.

At-home options range from strips already impregnated with the bleaching gel (purchased at any pharmacy), to tooth whitening pastes, and trays made from plaster models of the patient's mouth.

The patient receives the gel from the dentist and applies it to the tray, which should be in the mouth for ten to thirty minutes a day for ten days. In these cases, the concentration of Hydrogen Peroxide is much lower and therefore relatively safe.

In many cases, two techniques can be combined for more efficient and long-lasting results.

It is important to point out that results vary greatly from person to person. A treatment can be extremely effective for some (resulting in a drastic variation of color, with darkened teeth becoming much clearer), and at the same time not have satisfactory effects in others. The end result is not always predictable, so professional guidance is recommended to prevent exaggerations or frustrations.

For more information contact Lake Lucerne Dentistry at (407) 410-4489.