Having perfectly white teeth is something that appeals to some people. In many cases though, the natural colour of teeth are within a range of yellow to light greyish. Teeth tend to darken as the years go by and with surface stains from certain foods and beverages and tobacco products, teeth do darken.
Regardless of teeth not being naturally white, some individuals want a white smile. As a response to the demand, there are whitening products available and these products are either surface whiteners or bleaches.
Surface whiteners are products that use abrasives to help remove stains on the tooth surface. The vast majority of these products are either in the form of chewing gums or toothpastes. Although tempting, it is not a wise decision to use these products to replace professional cleaning.
Bleaches
Most products that bleach are peroxide-based and can alter the colour of teeth. It is important to understand that not all tooth discolourations will respond to bleaching treatments. A dentist can help you determine the cause of tooth discolouration in order for you to have a full understanding whether or not bleaching treatments will have the desired results. This is especially important for those who have crowns, root canals, fillings or extremely dark stains on the anterior teeth.
As tempting as those home kits may be, bleaching should always be done under the care of a dentist. Tooth bleaching under the control of a dental professional is safe and effective.
If you have any questions about bleaching or want a professional opinion as to whether or not this is for you, contact Eastgate Dental in Hamilton, where their friendly staff will be more than pleased to speak with you. Dr. Peter Rival works in cosmetic dentistry and ensures that all patients receive the best care possible. For more information, please visit http://eastgatedentalcentre.com or call their office at 905-560-2714.