How popular is teeth whitening and what stains does it remove?

Teeth whitening is a popular cosmetic dental procedure aimed at brightening the natural color of teeth by removing stains and discoloration. Over time, teeth can become discolored due to various factors such as consumption of colored foods and drinks (like coffee, tea, and wine), smoking, aging, or certain medications. Whitening treatments effectively lighten the teeth, restoring a more youthful and vibrant smile.

What are some of teeth whitening brands?

There are several well-known brands and systems for teeth whitening procedures, both for professional in-office treatments and at-home use. Some of the main brands include:

Professional In-Office Treatments:

• Zoom!: Zoom! is a popular brand known for its in-office teeth whitening system that uses a hydrogen peroxide gel and a special light to accelerate the whitening process. It can achieve significant whitening results in about an hour.

• Opalescence Boost: Opalescence Boost utilizes a chemically activated gel containing potassium nitrate and fluoride to minimize sensitivity while whitening teeth effectively. It's commonly used in dental offices for quick, efficient whitening treatments.

• BriteSmile: BriteSmile offers a gentle whitening system using a hydrogen peroxide gel and a patented blue light to enhance results. It's designed to whiten teeth while minimizing sensitivity.

At-Home Whitening Kits:

• Crest Whitestrips: Crest is well-known for its Whitestrips, which are adhesive strips coated with a whitening gel containing hydrogen peroxide. They offer convenience and are available in various formulations for different levels of whitening.

• Opalescence Go: Opalescence also offers a line of at-home whitening kits, such as Opalescence Go, which features pre-filled disposable trays with a hydrogen peroxide gel. These kits provide a convenient option for gradual teeth whitening at home.

• Philips Zoom NiteWhite: Philips Zoom offers at-home whitening kits like NiteWhite, which uses a carbamide peroxide gel in custom-fit trays that are worn overnight. This allows for effective whitening while sleeping.

These brands and systems vary in their formulations, application methods, and whitening strengths, catering to different preferences and needs. It's important to consult with a dentist to determine the most suitable whitening option based on individual oral health and desired whitening results.

How does it compare to at home teeth whitening kits? 

At-home whitening kits, on the other hand, consist of lower-concentration bleaching agents (usually in the form of gels or strips) that are applied to the teeth using trays custom-made to fit the patient's mouth. These kits are provided by dentists and offer a more gradual whitening process, with results appearing over several weeks of consistent use.

How does teeth whitening work? What is the process that is happening?

Both methods work by breaking down stains into smaller particles, which reduces their visibility and lightens the overall color of the teeth. The bleaching agents typically contain hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide, which penetrate the enamel and dentin to oxidize and dissolve stains. This process does not damage the tooth structure when used as directed, but it may cause temporary tooth sensitivity, which usually resolves after treatment.

How long does the teeth whitening process last?

It's important to note that the effectiveness of teeth whitening can vary depending on the type and severity of stains, as well as the quality and consistency of treatment. Results can last from several months to a few years, depending on lifestyle factors such as diet and oral hygiene habits.

Regular touch-ups or maintenance treatments may be recommended to sustain the brightness of the smile over time. Overall, teeth whitening is a safe and effective way to enhance the appearance of teeth, providing a brighter and more confident smile for many individuals.