Teeth whitening or bleaching products brighten teeth that have been stained or darkened by food, tobacco use, age or injury. There are a variety of in-office and take-home teeth whitening products to reduce or eliminate such stains.
In-Office Teeth Whitening
In-office teeth whitening, also called chairside bleaching, takes place during a series of appointments at a dentist's office. Advantages of in-office teeth whitening over take-home whitening include:
- Professional supervision
- Fast
- Safe and simple
- No sensitivity
Take-Home Teeth Whitening Products
Take-home bleaching solutions can help improve the color and overall brightness of teeth. These kits are simpler and less expensive than, and can be just as effective as, in-office treatments. Dentists provide patients with customized impression trays, whitening powder and whitening gel, the use of which improves the appearance of teeth over just a few days.
Over-the-Counter Teeth Whitening Products
Various over-the-counter products, such as whitening toothpastes and bleaching strips, are advertised as being effective teeth-whiteners. However, although based on the same science as professional bleaching, the concentration of effective ingredients tends to be much lower, lengthening treatment time and often not providing the level of whitening desired.
Whitening procedures are effective but not permanent. Depending on the procedure used, whitening may fade over time. Patients are advised to avoid food and drinks that may stain or darken teeth.
Here at Serenity Facial Aesthetics and Spa, we love bringing out the beauty in each of our clients. Teeth whitening treatments are an integral part of that. We'd love to help you have a smile you love to show off! To learn more about Zoom! Teeth whitening options, contact our Burlington, MA office at (781) 221-7140.
What are My Options for Whitening my Teeth?
If you've had your teeth whitened professionally in the past, you know the value of this approach. If you're just beginning to explore how you might want to revamp your smile, it can help to look at the various treatments that are common today.
- Whitening toothpaste. This form of commercial teeth whitening is convenient. However, toothpaste is designed to work only on surface stains, through the abrasion of the outermost part of your enamel. This means that you are unlikely to achieve very noticeable results using this approach.
- Teeth whitening strips. This commercial teeth-whitening option requires a bit more commitment than using whitening toothpaste. Still, it's convenient to pick up a box of whitening strips at a local retailer and apply them to your teeth for a few minutes each day. The issue with commercial whitening strips is that, to be safe for mass usage, the amount of hydrogen peroxide in these products is low. It may take an extended period of use to achieve noticeable results. Also, there is a risk of gum irritation.
- Professional teeth whitening kits. The most common form of professional teeth whitening includes the use of custom-fit trays and the use of a clinical-grade whitening gel. Home whitening is safe, convenient, and also proven to achieve noticeable results.
- In-office whitening. For quick, dramatic results, in-office teeth whitening is an ideal option. Treatment here in our comfortable med spa takes about an hour using the Zoom! Whitening system, and you leave the office with a million-dollar smile!
How Does Teeth Whitening Work?
Professional teeth whitening lifts discoloration through the application of hydrogen or carbamide peroxide. These substances break down the molecules of pigment that seep into and settle within the tiny pores in the layer of enamel that covers more delicate parts of your teeth. When you consume certain foods and beverages, some of the colored particles get absorbed into your enamel. Hydrogen or carbamide peroxide oxidizes these tiny molecules, which restores the optimal refraction of light off of your teeth. The more refraction there is, the more radiant your smile.
How Often Can I Get Zoom! Teeth Whitening?
Professional teeth whitening, whether done in the office or at home, can achieve long-lasting results. However, there may come a point at which you'd like a touch-up. Studies suggest that professional teeth whitening may be repeated once or even twice a year, provided that your teeth and gums are healthy.
Schedule your Teeth Whitening Treatment in Burlington, MA!
Our knowledgeable staff can help you love your smile. To schedule a consultation to discuss your options for in-office or home Zoom! whitening, contact us at (781) 221-7140.
