Charles F. McQuade, DMD
Master of the Academy of General Dentistry
Call (978) 470-8855
Tooth Whitening Basics: Recapture Your Smile!
From unusual ointments to hydrogen peroxide injections (yikes!), people have sought the secret to longevity for decades. Now, more than ever, people are willing to go to extremes to retain their youthful looks. While many of these strategies are risky or downright unsafe, there is one relatively simple way turn back the years: teeth whitening. Sure, whitening your teeth may not help you live longer, but it can restore your smile, rolling back years of coffee and other stains. While there are a variety of professional tooth whitening and bleaching methods available today, most of them are safe and relatively effective. Those carried out under the supervision of a dentist will ensure maximum results and optimum safety! Here are a few of your options.
Teeth Whitening Toothpastes
While using a tooth bleaching toothpaste may be the easiest, most affordable way to brighten your smile, it isn't ideal for those searching for a significant improvement. Some produce marginal improvement, while others produce none at all. They are relatively safe, but be sure to contact our office if you find your teeth are more sensitive than usual. Some lightening chemicals can actually erode tooth enamel, damaging your teeth.
Over-the-Counter Tooth Whitening and Bleaching Agents, Strips
Whitening agents and strips are more popular than ever before, and vary dramatically in price and effectiveness. While most are generally safe, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully. As with whitening toothpastes, some agents and whitening strips can be too harsh, damaging your teeth and increasing their sensitivity.
Dentist-Managed Teeth Bleaching Trays
One of the safest, most effective ways to whiten your teeth is through dentist-managed tooth bleaching trays and whitening agents. If you choose to go this route, your dentist will begin by taking a mold of your mouth to design a plastic tray that will fit snug against your teeth. You'll spread tooth whitening gel through the tray, slip it over your teeth, and let it do its job! Continue to do this over a course of a few days to acquire the results you were looking for. Once again, please report any sensitivity to your dentist.
Chair-Side Teeth Whitening
Also one of the safest, most effective whitening techniques, chair-side whitening is chemical teeth bleaching done by your dentist, in-office, in about an hour or so. There are a variety of options available today - your dentist can steer you in the right direction. While chair-side professional tooth whitening and bleaching can be a bit more expensive than other alternatives, it's done under the supervision of a professional and delivers fast results.
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Don't Forget to Floss!
Clean between teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner. Decay-causing bacteria can hid between teeth where toothbrush bristles can't reach. Flossing helps remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and under the gum line.
Visit Our Office Regularly!
Take good care of your smile. Remember to visit the dentist regularly for professional cleanings and oral exams.
Mouthwash Is Important, Too!
Brushing and flossing may not be enough. The ADA now recommends using an antimicrobial mouthwash to reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis.
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