Archive for December, 2011

It is best to brush your teeth lightly before any whitening treatment and leave about 30 to 60 minutes before each whitening procedure. It is best to use desensitizing toothpaste that contains about 5% potassium nitrate and fluoride to treat tooth sensitivity and also strengthen tooth enamel. Rinsing and flossing before a whitening procedure. However it is best to avoid rinsing with acidic liquids that could lead to weakening of tooth enamel. In addition flossing lightly helps remove built up bacteria, but make sure you do it at least 30 minutes before you start the whitening procedure.

Whitening strips generally do not damage the tooth enamel, but can cause sensitivity to teeth that is temporary. Some contend that they may be harmful if used for a long time and could turn the teeth bluish permanently. Some others feel that the teeth turn brittle if used often.

It is to be understood that most teeth whitening products involve the application of bleach that could make it unsuitable for people that have gum disorders and extreme sensitivity. However these people could benefit with having their gums treated first to make them healthy for application of whitening strips. Those having extreme sensitivity conditions could benefit from using products that are specialized designed for such users. These whitening strips can be used for a shorter period and have lower strength whiteners.

It is not safe for kids to undergo teeth whitening, with it working best on adults of at least 18 years of age. There are ample chances for sensitivity to set in especially in teenagers, so teeth whitening should be more just to maintain the beautiful looks and not turn addictive. Parents can play a vital role in inculcating good eating and dental habits in their children and discourage the use of over-the-counter teeth whitening products like teeth whitening strips, gels, pens and mouth guards. However the use of mouth rinses, flosses, whitening toothpastes and gums prove quite safe.

This question cannot be answered with a simple answer for your expectations about the final results needs to be realistic. Long term results can never be expected, but brushing, flossing and visiting your dentist for periodic cleaning and check-ups can only render optimum results. Also results of teeth whitening can vary from person to person. It is also relevant to note that not all can be a suitable candidate for teeth whitening.

Tooth whitening is not good for your teeth when teeth restorations like veneers have been used, or when there is internal staining of the teeth or root canal procedures have been done. Whitening products like hydrogen peroxide, and carbamide peroxide cannot work well on them and these teeth could appear artificial. Internal tooth whitening may be required when there is internal staining.

Brown or grey hue teeth cannot be whitened, with only teeth with a yellow hue producing good results. Teeth whitening may not be useful and is not advisable for pregnant or nursing mothers and those that have hypersensitivity in teeth.

It is easy to whitening your teeth with this home product in just about 2 weeks time. After wetting the tooth-brush, dip it in baking soda, so as to cover it fully and then brush your teeth for about 2 minutes. Alternatively it could be mixed with either hydrogen peroxide or lime juice and water and mixed in a container before brushing. Spit out the baking soda mixture and rinse your mouth clean with water, making sure to not brush too hard and for too long as it could damage your tooth enamel and lead to oversensitivity of teeth.

Brushing should be done 2 times a day and dental floss and mouthwash used to clean fully and remove bad taste. A favorite spice of fruit can be used to bring back taste to the tongue. Never repeat this process very often as it could lead to abrasives on the teeth. Tooth whitening with baking soda is contra-indicated in case you wear braces or a permanent retainer.

Teeth whitening can be done at home with whitening strips, trays, and toothpastes. Peroxides like hydrogen peroxide and carbamide form effective whiteners by removing stains by foaming on them. A higher concentration makes for whiter teeth and quicker procedures. However they could get trapped in the nerve roots and cause increased sensitivity. This is remedied with brushing ones teeth with a gentle bristles toothbrush and using fluoride toothpaste.