Space Age Smiles | Houston, TX

Whitening

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Interested in teeth whitening

Teeth whitening has always been a popular cosmetic practice and now with whitening kinds of toothpaste, over-the-counter gels, rinses, strips, trays, and other whitening products it is easier than ever to try to get the whitest teeth possible. People who have healthy teeth with no fillings and gums are best suited for teeth whitening. However, whitening is not a good idea for everyone.  

Dr. Heather Darcey and her team of dental professionals can help! Call 281-317-6881 or make Schedule an Appointment online.

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Whitening toothpaste, while similar to regular toothpaste in that it removes surface stains on teeth, also contain gentle polishing or chemical agents that will further teeth whitening.  

These types of toothpaste only remove stains on the surface of teeth and do not contain bleach. If someone is looking to dramatically change the color of his/her teeth whitening toothpaste will only lighten teeth by about one shade.

Another type of whitening approach is over-the-counter whitening strips and gels. Gels are clear and peroxide-based. A  small brush is used to apply the gel directly to the surface of the teeth. Results can be seen as soon as a few days and final results will remain for about four months.

If you have any questions call Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles 281-317-6881

Whitening strips are thin strips that are coated with the peroxide-based whitening gel. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label. Just like with the gels applied with a brush, the whitening results from the strips will be noticed within a few days while the final results will last about four months.

A new kind of whitening product that is available at a store are whitening rinses. They freshen breath, help reduce dental plaque and fight against gum disease. Unlike regular mouthwash though, these rinses include hydrogen peroxide to whiten teeth. It takes a much longer time to see the results though. Whereas strips and gels take only a few days whitening results from rinses can take up to 12 weeks. Just like regular mouthwash, whitening rinse is swished around in the mouth for 60 seconds twice a day. The rinses may not be as effective as other whitening products though because it is only in contact with teeth for a short amount of time comparable to the other products.

A patient can buy a tray-based tooth whitener from his/her dentist or even over-the-counter.

It is like a mouth guard but there is a gel whitening solution containing a peroxide-bleaching agent inside it. It can safely be worn for a couple of hours a day to every day during the night for four weeks or longer.

If a quick whitening procedure is desired though, in-office whitening is the best way to go. The whitening product is placed directly on the teeth and after being heated, lit, or lasered, results are seen within one session. Even though the results are seen right away, more appointments may be needed for whiter teeth.

f a quick whitening procedure is desired though, in-office whitening is the best way to go. The whitening product is placed directly on the teeth and after being heated, lit, or lasered, results are seen within one session. Even though the results are seen right away, more appointments may be needed for whiter teeth.

Teeth whitening is not a permanent solution. All kinds of food and beverages stain teeth. If those foods and drinks are avoided though, whitening touch ups may be needed in a full year or longer.

Whitening may not work for everyone and not everyone should do it. People under the age of 16 should not whiten teeth. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should also not whiten their teeth. People with sensitive teeth, allergies, gum disease, worn enamel, cavities, and exposed roots should also reconsider getting their teeth whitened or at least consult with a dentist before proceeding.

If you think teeth whitening will enhance your smile, or if you have questions about teeth whitening contact Dr. Heather Darcey at Space Age Smiles, 281-317-6881 . You can also make an appointment online.

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