Dentists provide invaluable services in preventative and restorative care for people's teeth and mouth. In the past decade, however, the cosmetic side of dentistry is becoming more popular than it ever has been before. People are not just going to the dentists to check for cavities or gingivitis; rather, they go to receive treatments that will give them a better looking smile. Dentists typically offer an assortment of cosmetic services, such as veneer application and tooth color restoration. But one of the most popular cosmetic dental procedures is teeth whitening.
One of the most common methods of whitening teeth is through bleaching, which if done under the supervision of a qualified dentist, is safe and effective. Bleaching allows teeth to be whitened beyond the original color of their enamel, and this can be done with different products such as gels that contain a form of bleach, usually hydrogen peroxide or carbamide peroxide.
For those who want a significant color change, in-office whitening is usually the fastest way to achieve dramatic whitening results. In-office whitening usually entails a dentist applying a peroxide gel to the teeth and allowing the gel to remain on the teeth for a series of intervals that all add up to an hour at most.
The gel applied to the teeth usually contains a high concentration (from 9 to 40 percent) of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide is the most powerful and fast-acting substance used to whiten teeth. And during this entire procedure, the gums are protected with a paint-on rubber dam.
Although in-office whitening treatments are very effective, they can also be some of the most expensive, so those looking for a cheaper alternative often use take-home whitening kits. These whitening kits can be attained from dentists, and they usually contain gels that have a lower concentration of peroxide. And instead of hydrogen peroxide, most at-home whitening gels contain carbamide peroxide, which is not as harsh or powerful. The gel is usually applied with tray, and patients receive results over a longer period of time (usually a series of weeks) than in-office procedures.
Although dentists provide a wide assortment of services, from preventative cleanings and check-ups to restorative and repairing treatments, one of the most popular services dentists provide is teeth whitening. And as the whitening and other cosmetic dental services continue to advance, they promise to become cheaper and more popular than ever.
Author Resource:-
Williams and Drake Dentistry (http://www.williamsanddrakedentistry.com/) is a General and Cosmetic Dentist Services. Art Gib is a freelance writer.