Benefits of Home Bleaching

    NEW YORK, NY, October 03, 2008 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Home bleaching offers an affordable alternative to bleaching treatments in your dentist's office. Your dentist will tell you which teeth whitening methods are the best for your teeth. In some cases, your dentist may have the capabilities of making a bleaching kit for you to take home.

Although not all whitening methods will be effective, your dentist will know what procedure will work best for your individual needs. Teeth that have a yellowish color generally whiten well. Teeth with a brownish color may not respond as well to treatments. If your teeth have a grayish color to them, they may not respond at all.

Bleaching Techniques

All bleaching products contain peroxide in one of two forms, carbamide peroxide and hydrogen peroxide. This chemical dissolves organic stains on the teeth which changes the color to a brighter, whiter appearance. There are a few different bleaching products available which contain peroxide.

• In-Practice Products - This method begins in the dentist's office, where a solution with a very high percentage of peroxide is applied to the patient's teeth. In some cases, the solution is activated by a laser, light or heat application. Once the procedure is complete, the patient is given a take home product to use regularly until the desired whiteness is achieved.
• Custom-Fitted Bleaching Trays - This product is used under the supervision of the dentist. The solution contains a lower percentage of peroxide and is placed in a tray that is worn either overnight or during the day. The custom-fitted tray holds the bleaching solution against the teeth and reduces the contact with the gums. Some of these products contain fluoride to prevent and treat tooth sensitivity. When trays are worn overnight, the desired effect will be reached in one to two weeks.
• Over-the-Counter - These whitening products contain a low percentage of peroxide. Use caution with these products because some contain an acidic solution that can dissolve tooth enamel if not used properly.
• Some of these products use a tray that is standard and not made to fit individual mouths. As a result, the solution may be swallowed instead of held against the teeth. Others have whitening strips that are placed on the teeth for approximately half an hour. These strips work well but can irritate the gums. The results can be seen in about a week and can last up to a year.
• Teeth Whitening Toothpastes - These products also contain a small percentage of peroxide. They are effective in cleaning and whitening teeth, although some may be abrasive, which can have an adverse effect on tooth enamel. Teeth whitening products are meant to remove surface stains and prevent build up of new stains, but are not effective for removing internal stains.

Depending on the type of teeth bleaching product you use, your results can last anywhere from one to three years. Brushing and flossing will help to maintain the whiteness and brightness.

The results will also greatly depend on your personal habits. Some habits that are counter productive to your whitening efforts are:

• Drinking red wine
• Drinking tea
• Drinking coffee
• Smoking

Home bleaching is a process that you are in control of. You can whiten your teeth at an affordable price in the comfort of your own home. If you choose to follow all directions from your dentist and the product packaging thoroughly, you will be able to enjoy a whiter and brighter smile in a relatively short period of time.

To learn more about teeth bleaching options, please visit the website of Dr. Michael Iott and Associates.

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