Have you stared in the mirror lately wishing that you could somehow make your teeth appear whiter? Teeth whitening has increased dramatically over recent years, and having whiter teeth has become the number-one aesthetic concern for most people, according to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. Fortunately, the teeth whitening products available today are simple, non-invasive treatments that effectively change the colour of your tooth enamel. It has become virtually hassle-free for anyone looking to whiten their teeth with the variety of products out in today's market. The primary factors that dictate what patients want in teeth whitening are ease of application, effectiveness and affordability.
Causes of Extrinsic Tooth Discolouration
A number of common habits may seem insignificant, but can have a major effect on the colour of your teeth over time. According to the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, these include the following:
- Smoking
- Drinking red wine
- Drinking coffee or tea
- Drinking dark-coloured soft drinks
- Eating red sauces
- Eating dark-coloured fruits (raspberries, blueberries, blackberries)
Numerous options are available today to help remove surface stains and whiten your teeth. Some are over-the-counter (OTC) products (toothpastes, mouthwashes) that can be the least expensive and the easiest to use.
Whitening Toothpastes and Rinses
Toothpastes can contain mild abrasives (gentle polishing agents) to facilitate the removal of stains on the outer surfaces of the teeth while brushing. A mouthwash can contain hydrogen peroxide as a bleaching agent, according to the American Dental Association (ADA), to help whiten your teeth while you freshen your breath at the same time. These products can be used daily, especially after meals that cause staining to occur. Initial results can be seen in as little as a few days.
Special whitening toothbrushes are also available to polish teeth without abrasion using special condensed bristles.
