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The Truth Behind Teeth Whitening

Everyone dreams of a beautiful smile - one that lights up a room. Today, there are so many teeth whitening treatments available, that it’s hard to know what works. Moreover, what are the risks of teeth whitening, whether at the clinic or at home?

Teeth whitening is a purely cosmetic procedure. Depending on the treatment, there are different methods that accomplish the same goal: removing discoloration and stains from teeth. The process can improve your confidence, but there can be side effects. 

Below, we want to cover everything you need to know about teeth whitening. From at-home to professional treatments, learn the benefits and risks of each method. Additionally, it’s important to understand what precautions to take before and after treatment, how to care for your teeth, and whether it’ll work for you. 

Ready for a brighter smile? 

Understanding Teeth Whitening

It’s normal for people to want a brighter, whiter smile. Often, people use one of many whitening treatments to brighten and clean their teeth. There are two main categories to consider: 

• At-home treatments
• In-office treatments 

At-home treatments usually involve strips or trays. Results can take a bit longer with these options. On the other hand, in-office options use a higher grade of equipment to produce quicker results. 

However, they both have the potential to cause gum irritation, enamel damage, or tooth sensitivity. Before you dive into a new treatment, talk to your dentist to minimize your risk. 

How Does It Work?

Teeth whitening treatments use a peroxide-based bleaching agent that breaks down stains and discoloration that cover the surface of teeth. These stains come from a range of sources, but common culprits include tobacco, coffee, tea, and wine. 

In-office whitening treatments tend to be more effective but also more expensive. At-home treatments take longer and are less efficient but are more cost-effective. 

The Benefits of Teeth Whitening

There are plenty of benefits to whitening treatments. 

Boost Your Self-Confidence

Having a brighter smile can give you more confidence and improve your self-esteem. Having more confidence brings a positive impact to the rest of your life. In the words of comedian John Mulaney, “Confidence is the biggest currency we have.” 

Improve Your Oral Health

Good oral health is an important part of your overall well-being. Whitening can help you achieve that goal because it motivates you to maintain your brighter smile. Maintenance can be as easy as brushing and flossing regularly. 

However, this simple maintenance can do wonders for your gums and teeth. 

Risks of Teeth Whitening

The risks of whitening procedures result from the bleaching agents used. Typically, you may experience the following side effects:

• Tooth sensitivity 
• Gum irritation 
• Enamel damage

If you experience any of these issues for a prolonged period, consult your dentist. Your dentist can help you relieve sensitivity and irritation. Additionally, they can recommend a better procedure. 

Ready to Brighten Your Smile?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic procedure for clear reasons. People love to have a brighter smile that they can flash comfortably. If you want to experience the benefits, it is important to understand the risks. Whether you opt for an at-home or in-office treatment, look into the reviews. 

To learn more about your options and find the best solution for you, talk to your Shreveport dentist.